Ensuring fewer young people have VSA problems
Research over the last two decades has identified the risk and preventative factors that are associated with drug misuse. If risk factors are lowered and protective factors heightened the evidence suggests fewer young people will have drug problems. Looked after and accommodated children’s services can clearly have an influence on these issues by, for example, maintaining stable care placements; effective care planning; and healthy care practices, including appropriate support and training for foster carers and residential staff.1
The following list is based upon Drug Education, handbook for teacher and youth workers. Graham T. Davies and Richard Pates (2002):2
- Make sure that young people know the facts about volatile substances
Young people may not be aware of the risks associated with volatile substances. Often their information comes from the grapevine and may be incomplete and inaccurate. They may assume that because these products are legal and available the risks to them are not as great as illegal drugs.
- Examine with young people about everyday substances and how to use them safely
Whatever physical protections are in place, young people are naturally curious and may experiment with anything within their environment. It is important for young people of all ages that they are aware that there are hazards within their surroundings. These hazards do not just relate to VSA and include risks of fire, electrocution amongst many others. You could talk with young people about why it is important to read and understand the instructions before using a product.
- Give opportunities to explore attitudes, values and risk taking
Young people's attitudes and values will differ greatly from adults. It may be helpful to explore relative risks of different activities and the potential consequences of their actions. Many young people are not averse to risk taking, as this is a natural part of growing up. Adventure activities may provide a managed outlet for this behaviour. Advice should be sought if a young person is exhibiting other self-harming behaviour.
- Develop the skills of assertiveness and resisting unwanted peer influence by role-playing situations in which children under pressure sniff
Schools will have a PHSE (Personal, Health and Social Education) programme. The programme should focus on building skills such as dealing with peer pressure. It would be helpful to liaise with the school.
- Discuss the fact that deaths have occurred from accidents while people are intoxicated and stress the dangers of sniffing near main roads, rivers, canals, ponds, railway lines etc
Young people may think about the direct effects product but may not give consideration to the fact that that there are also indirect risks.
- Spend time listening to those whose sniffing is a response to a personal problem
Use of solvents may be a symptom of other issues. It is essential that these issues are appropriately addressed. Lack of confidence in addressing solvent abuse may inhibit professionals from taking actions that are fully within their skills, experience and role.
- Encourage greater use of leisure activities
Being occupied in an activity that interests and enthuses may simply distract a young person from using solvents. It may also build self-esteem and confidence.
- Know what action to take if you find a young person intoxicated or unconscious as a result of sniffing a volatile substance
See Medical emergencies: First aid
- Explore a community approach
Other staff, parents, and the local community provide further opportunities for prevention.
Prevention — key points
- There are many opportunities for prevention
- Liaise with the school about their PHSE programme