Drug and alcohol services: experiences of children and young people

This is a report by Healthwatch Hertfordshire. The project looks at young people's experiences of drug and alcohol services.

Healthwatch Hertfordshire was commissioned by Public Health at Hertfordshire County Council to gather feedback from children and young people aged 14-24 who have firsthand experience with using drug and alcohol services. A total of 33 people gave their views.

Key findings:

• Most respondents from both age groups had accessed support in the last 3 months
• Respondents aged 14-17 primarily used drugs and alcohol due to boredom
• Respondents aged 14-17 prioritised understanding drugs and alcohol
• Reducing or stopping use was the lowest priority for 14-17 year old respondents
• Confidentiality was more important for respondents aged 18-24
• Friendly and supportive staff members was important to both age groups

There are recommendations in this report across five areas

• Education, Awareness, Availability, Communication, Individualised support. More attention was needed across these areas to improve the information, access and support on drugs and alcohol services.

There are no follow up actions in this report.