WELCOME as well as photocopiable sheets for group and

one-to-one activities and awareness-raising.

Welcome to this issue of the FRANK
Action Update. The Update is a regular
publication, bringing you ideas,
activities and inspiration to support
local awareness in tandem with FRANK.
Each Update focuses on a specific theme,
providing background briefing, ideas and
resources for local media and awareness work,
The range of professionals in the FRANK network
is very broad and diverse – so you may find
that some issues of the Update are more
relevant to your work and your client group
than others. But we hope that each issue brings
you useful information – and inspiration – as you
get on with the vital job of raising awareness
about drugs, and where people can go for
information and help.

IN THIS ISSUE
Families are the heart of society; the place most people go for comfort, help and guidance. When it comes
to the big issues in life, parents, partners and siblings play a pivotal role. This Update brings you information,
ideas and activities on how to help families deal with drugs – and how to inform them about the support that
you – and FRANK – can offer them.

CONTENTS:
FRANK IN ACTION Feedback from the public and local networks about the FRANK campaign 2
VITAL STATISTICS Trends, insights and facts on this issue’s theme 3
MOVERS AND SHAKERS Snapshots of positive practice from the field on this issue’s theme 7
IDEAS FOR ACTION Ideas and inspiration for media work and local awareness,
including sample press releases 9
USEFUL RESOURCES Useful contacts, publications, resources and websites 14

LOOSE SHEETS:
FRANK BRIEFING Background information and briefing
DRUGS: A PARENTS’ GUIDE
FRANK ADVICE Practical advice sheets on dealing with drugs issues
DRUGS: BE FRANK WITH YOUR KIDS
DRUGS: BE FRANK WITH YOUR MATES
WHEN YOUR PARENTS HAVE A DRUG PROBLEM
DRUGS IN YOUR FAMILY
FRANK ACTIVITIES Activities and ideas for work in one-to-one, groupwork settings,
and for media work
FLASH CARDS FOR PARENTS
PROBLEM PAGE
DRUGS QUIZ FOR PARENTS (2 sheets)
DRUGS CROSSWORD FOR PARENTS (2 sheets)
MORE FRANK Order your FRANK resources

The core audiences for the FRANK Activities and FRANK Advice in this issue are parents, and young people aged 11-17.
 IN ACTION
FRANK is the no-nonsense, non-judgemental source of information and advice on drugs and their effects. TV,
radio and press advertising and posters in pubs, bars and on the streets, has raised FRANK’s profile with specific
audiences – especially young people. Meanwhile strong support from local organisations, who are using
FRANK as part of their own campaigning, is helping to get the message out at a local level.
FRANK FEEDBACK
“I am a mum of teens, and work in a college.
I have passed on your web address to several
students. It’s a great site, honest and truthful.
It gives facts so that people can make choices,
it doesn’t preach. Again – well done.”
Email about the FRANK website from a parent
“I would like to say as an ex-drug user and now
a mother I have looked around your site. I think
you have done well, and to let people get advice
through the net without others being informed is
great. I never had anything like this when I was
using (and boy was I using). My saviour was my
son. I found out I was pregnant and could never
dream of hurting my baby just for a high. After a
year of not using I never felt the need again. But
it’s not that easy for everyone I know. Your site
being there for others should help.”
Email about the FRANK website from a parent
FRANK THANKS
FRANK wants to thank The Collet School in Hemel
Hempstead for promoting FRANK to parents. The
headteacher of the school registered for the
campaign and received her pack just as it was
needed. One of the pupils had inhaled a solvent
while at home and needed hospital treatment. The
school spent a week working with pupils (who have
learning difficulties) on drugs issues, using FRANK
activities to generate engagement and awareness,
and distributing FRANK leaflets and information to
parents. Headteacher Elaine Gardner said: “We
received our FRANK pack at a very timely moment.
Luckily our pupil is fine now, but we wanted to work
with our young people and parents and let them
know that help and advice is available.”
KEEP IN TOUCH! Tell us what you’re doing – and what people are saying locally about FRANK by
emailing the campaign team at frank@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk
2 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
“On behalf of our kids and carers, and our
organisation may I say ‘It’s been a long time
coming’. We would like to assist in any way
we can and would like to join the campaign.”
Email about the FRANK campaign from Love 2 Care group, Bolton
“The information shown on the FRANK website for
services in Luton is incorrect. Please can you update
as per the attached spreadsheet. Thank you.”
Email from Luton Drug & Alcohol Partnership about incorrect
details on the FRANK website
FRANK says: The FRANK campaign team is aware
that there were some problems with the service listings
on talktofrank.com. Thank you for letting us have details
of various inaccuracies - the only way we can provide
accurate information is if you let us know of problems.
Email FRANK@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk. We are constantly
working to find ways of making the service listings smarter
and easier to use.
For news on how FRANK is progressing, and details
of future plans, make sure you register at
www.drugs.gov.uk/campaign
FRANK wants to thank Croydon DAT for developing
a comprehensive leaflet for parents of year 6 and
year 9 students, in association with FRANK. Working
together with the local police and the LEA, A
Croydon Parents’ Guide was produced to help
parents identify the most commonly used drugs and
has been designed to give accurate and objective
information to help them to talk to their children
about drugs in an informed way. The leaflet also
details the law relating to drugs and signposts local
and national services. Copies of the leaflet are sent
to all headteachers in the area (for distribution to
parents), school governors and other agencies that
are in contact with parents. The finished leaflet was
approved by the Young People’s Focus Group.
VITAL STATISTICS: FAMILIES
THE TOP LINE PARTNERS
The partners of people with drug and alcohol
Families come in all shapes and sizes - large, small, problems are also vital sources of help and support.
nuclear, foster, gay, straight, lone-parent or extended. Research shows that partners take less time to get
Whatever form they take, families can be vital sources over the initial shock of discovering their loved ones
of information and support on issues like drugs, and are using drugs, and adopt a much faster practical
are the places most people go when they find mindset than other family members. But substance
themselves in trouble. On the other side of the coin, misuse can hit relationships hard, affecting sex lives
where parents themselves have problems with alcohol and causing money problems, sometimes resulting
or drugs, young people can find themselves in the in physical violence and separation.4
role of carer, offering practical and emotional support.
FRIENDS
PARENTS AND CARERS Friends too can provide invaluable support and
Parents and carers have been identified as having information if someone has a problem with drugs.
a crucial role to play in preventing problematic drug Mates trust and listen to one another, and are
use amongst young people.1 Cohesion, care and often there for each other when things get tough.
communication within a family have been shown A recent survey found that 54% of young people
to impact significantly on drug experimentation and aged 11-18 would rather go to their friends for
use, and can reduce the likelihood of young people information on important issues than to teachers,
developing longer-term problems.2 As experts have magazines or the Internet.5 In general, young people
long agreed: “a family centred intervention is trust what their peers tell them about drugs more
particularly important in steering a young person than they trust people in authority.6
away from their potential drug using career.” 3
THE LOW DOWN
FAMILIES TODAY
• In England and Wales in 2001, of all households
with dependent children, 59% were married
coupled households, 11% were cohabiting couples
and 22% lone-parent families 7
• 65% of dependent children still live with both
natural parents 7
• Two in five marriages end in divorce 8
• Almost one in four children in England and Wales
lives in a one-parent family 7
• More than 10% of children are in step-families,
and at least 45,000 youngsters live in communal
establishments 7
• In 2003 over 60,000 children were looked after in
residential care 9
• On average, parents spend about an hour and
a half a day with their children 10
• Around 1 in 3 families have a home computer 11
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 3
 VITAL STATISTICS: FAMILIES
DRUGS AND FAMILIES
THE PARENTS’ PERSPECTIVE
“Most parents… were concerned about
drugs, knew very little about them, and did
not feel confident in talking about drugs to
their children.” 12 Drugs project worker
Not surprisingly, parents and carers are often seriously
worried about the possibility of their children taking
drugs. Indeed, research has shown that parents’
biggest worry about family life is the risk to their
children from drugs and alcohol.13
This level of anxiety can colour many parents’ views
on drugs, leading them to believe that:
• Taking any drug even once can lead to long
term addiction and harm
• Drug use among young people is a sign
of bad parenting
• Drug use will lead young people to be
out of control and excluded from society
• Society views drug taking as wrong,
and even ‘evil’6
Fears like these can be a barrier to parent-child
communication on drugs. It’s certainly difficult for
parents to understand the ‘pull factors’ associated
with drugs: in one UK study, less than 20% of parents
would agree that ‘taking drugs is fun’. 14
And when parents do try to address the issues, they
often feel unprepared and unconfident. Research
shows that many parents feel that they are:
• Ill-equipped to deal with drugs issues
• Uninformed on drugs and drugs culture
• Unsure of what to look out for, or how
to spot signs of experimentation
• Lacking the basic skills and confidence
to communicate with their children
• Unaware of where to turn for help
and information15
4 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
THE CHANGE CURVE
Adfam, which represents the needs of families
of drug users, has mapped out a ‘Change Curve’
representing the typical emotional journey
experienced by families as they come to terms
with problematic drug use.
Denial
Performance Shock
Blame
Adaptation
Acceptance
Time
THE YOUNG PERSON’S PERSPECTIVE
“Mum really cried when I told her I took drugs.
I thought she'd go nuts but she was brilliant.
We had a chat and she said she'd be there
for me.” 15 year-old, London
"They [parents] don't come at it the right way…
they don't talk to you, they tell you, and
I don't think that's right. They just jump down
your throat." 15 year-old, Edinburgh
In a 2003 opinion poll, 75% of young people ranked
drugs among ‘the most important issues’ facing the
UK today5. They care – and are concerned about –
the issues – but where do they go for information
and support?
Not surprisingly, they feel ambivalent about talking
to their parents or carers – often wanting reassurance
and advice, but not feeling able to share their
real experience.
MAIN HEADING
TRUST UNCERTAINTY
In general, most young people – especially under -16’s But for some young people – and for older teenagers
– do trust their parents: – issues of trust with their parents are not so clear-cut.
Common reasons cited for not wanting to talk to
• More than 70% of under-16’s say they trust parents include:
their parents 16
• 57% of young people aged 11-18 would turn • Believing they already know what their parents
to their families for information and support will sa.
on issues which worry them • Not believing that their parents know what they
• 82% of young people would be most likely to trust are talking about
their parents out of a range of adult authority • Thinking that talking about drugs within the family
figures including teachers and policemen5 will worry their parents or make them suspicious
• Not wanting to lie if they can avoid it6
Young people are usually prepared to listen to what
their parents have to say, and would often prefer to By the age of 16 or 17, for many young people the
get information and advice from parents than from culture gap between themselves and their parents
external sources. A Drug Education Forum Consultation can seem too wide for any constructive
run by the National Children’s Bureau in 2000 found conversation on drugs to take place.
that “Secondary school pupils… want their parents
to know what help is available for children and
young people so they can get support when they HELPING PARENTS BRIDGE THE GAP
don’t want to speak to their teacher”. Research has shown that drug awareness work with
parents and carers – while sometimes challenging -
When parents do communicate with them about bears definite fruit. By meeting often quite basic
drugs, younger teenagers are often appreciative. needs for information, and by fulfilling more complex
In a survey of 12-13 year-olds in Essex,12 carried out needs for communication skills, work with parents
after a drug awareness event for parents: can have significant benefits in terms of their:
• 90% were glad that their parents had talked • Awareness and knowledge about drugs
to them • Confidence in positively communicating with their
• 90% had confidence in what their parents children about drugs
had said to them • Confidence in positively influencing their children’s
• 89% said that they could talk to their parents attitude and behaviour concerning drugs
about drug-related issues in the future • Confidence in coping with any drug-related
• 81% believed that what their parents had said behaviour
would affect their decisions about drug use • Understanding of drugs prevention12
REFERENCES:
1 The Government’s 10-year drug strategy, Tackling Drugs to Build a Better Britain (1998, updated 2002), puts parents and families at the heart of the debate on
drug prevention and support.
2 Duncan, T.E., Tildesley, E., Duncan, S.C., and Hops, H. (1995). The consistency of family and peer influences on the development of substance use in adolescence.
Addiction, 90, 1647–60.
3 Farrell, M. and Strang, J. (1991). Substance use and misuse in childhood and adolescence. Journal of Child Psychology & Psychiatry, 32, 109-128.
4 Robson, K. (2003). Living with a drug User, for the partners of drug users, Adfam.
5 Young People’s Attitudes Towards Politics, Nestlé Family Monitor / MORI, July 2003.
6 Talking About Drugs, Home Office, Department of Health / Department for Education & Skills, 2002.
7 Census 2001, Office for National Statistics.
8 One Parent Families Today, National Council for One Parent Families, 2001.
9 Children looked after by local Authorities, Year ending 31st March 2003, Office for National Statistics 2003.
10 Research for Abbey National, Gershuny, J. University of Essex with the Future Foundation, 2000.
11 Annual Abstract of Statistics 2000, Office for National Statistics.
12 Velleman, R., Mistral, W., Sanderling, L. (2000). Taking the Message Home: involving parents in drug prevention, report prepared for the Home Office.
13 National Family and Parenting Institute Survey, conducted by MORI, 2001.
14 Cohen, J. (1996). Drugs in the classroom: Politics, propaganda and censorship, Druglink, 11, 12-14.
15 Sims, H. (2002). Families in Focus: a report on families in England affected by problems with drugs and alcohol, Adfam.
16 MORI Poll for The Observer, 2002.
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 5
 VITAL STATISTICS: FAMILIES
HIDDEN HARM
On the other side of the family-
drugs debate, parental
substance misuse can have
a significant and damaging
impact on young people.
In 2000, the Advisory Council
on the Misuse of Drugs
launched an Inquiry focusing
on the children of problem drug users. The results,
published in June 2003 as Hidden Harm, responding
to the needs of children of problem drug users,
highlighted the size and the extent of the problem,
and set down key issues for policy and practice.
KEY FINDINGS
• Between 250,000 and 350,000 children have at least
one parent with a serious drug problem (roughly
2-3% of all children under 16 in England and Wales)
• Problematic parental drug use has a major negative
impact on children’s health and education,
and their social and psychological development
• Reducing the harm to children from parental
problem drug use should become a main
objective of policy and practice
STARS
STARS - an initiative from the Children’s Society – works
closely with families where the parents are currently
using substances. The model of work used is both
child-centred and child-focused and concentrates on
ensuring the emotional needs of children in drug-using
families are met. Time is invested in ensuring that
children feel listened to and heard, that their needs
are ascertained and that someone appropriate is
trying to meet those needs.
The main success STARS has in family situations is where
it brings together the perspectives of both parent
and child. To bring families together, they aim to:
• Engage with parents and give them real choices
about whether their child receives services
• Provide support to parents who may need time and
space to understand why services for their child are
important
6 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
• Effective treatment of the parent can have major
benefits for the child
• By working together, services can take many
practical steps to protect and improve the health
and well-being of affected children
As well as covering the scale and impact of the
problem, the report highlights the voices of parents
and children, reviews existing policy and provision,
and gives broad recommendations for future policy
and practice, including:
• Effective, expanded, high quality treatment services
• A family-focused approach within substance
misuse services, recognising their role and
responsibility in ensuring children’s well-being,
in partnership with others
• Increased collaboration and training on the part
of health services, social services, education
services and the criminal justice system
• Unlocking the potential in the non-statutory
sector for developing helpful services
The full report and executive summary are available
to download or order at www.drugs.gov.uk
• Support a child individually to make sense of their
family situation
• Enable a child either to discuss their perceptions and
concerns with a parent directly, or providing a child
with the skills and resources to represent their feelings
to their parent
• Give space and time to parents to reflect on and
understand their child’s feelings and help them
make sense of their child’s perspectives
For further information on STARS work with families,
contact:
Karl Lonsdale Deputy Project Leader, STARS
The Children's Society
Mayfair Court, Northgate
New Basford, Nottingham
NG7 7GR
Tel: 0115 942 2974
Email: kjl@childsoc.org.uk
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
In this section we profile some of the
great drugs awareness work going on
at a local level relevant to this issue’s
theme. If you want to develop your
own drug awareness work in new
directions, your local Drug Action Team
should be able to advise you. Contact
details for local Drug Action Teams can
be found online at www.drugs.gov.uk.
PARENTS’ REFERRAL SERVICE
SORTED!
Sorted! provides awareness, harm reduction,
treatment and care services to young people under
18 across Northumberland who are experiencing
problems because of drug or alcohol misuse.
Workers who were providing one-to-one support to
young people found that they were spending a lot
of informal time reassuring and informing the young
person’s parents. A number of approaches to
formalising support for parents were piloted, and the
most beneficial was found to be the allocation of a
separate worker from within the Sorted! project to
support the parent. Throughout, Sorted! have been
careful to maintain their focus on the young person’s
care and confidentiality, developing clear contracts
for parental involvement as part of the young
person’s overall care plan, as well as separate
confidentiality agreements for parents.
They are also clear that they are not providing
mediation – though they can refer clients to relevant
services. Their goal is very much about informing and
reassuring parents, and helping them to understand
substance use. Sorted! are happy to share
documents and policy relating to this service with
interested projects.
For further info, contact Serena Thompson or Jacqui
Sutcliffe at Sorted! Tel: 01670 500 150
Email: sthompson@northumberland.gov.uk or
jsutcliffe@northumberland.gov.uk
SUPPORTING SERVICES FOR PARENTS
GLOUCESTERSHIRE DRUG AND ALCOHOL
TEAM (GLOUCESTERSHIRE DAAT)
Gloucestershire DAAT has taken a facilitative,
capacity-building approach to supporting services
for parents and concerned others affected by drugs.
Since November 2002, when they held a successful
workshop for parents as part of their annual
conference, they have been strategically supporting
parents’ self-help activity, and working with local
partners such as frontline providers Gloucestershire
Drugs and Alcohol Service to develop relevant
services. Projects that they have supported include:
• A pilot telephone buddying scheme linking isolated
parents of problematic drug users in the Forest of
Dean, which is now being replicated in other areas
• A helpline and website run by Cheltenham Parents
Support Group, a self-help group set up by the
parents of drug users
• A pilot family therapy project within a local
residential rehab service
• A training session on family perspectives, delivered
by parents, as part of advanced drug training for
Connexions Specialist Advisors
As well as providing funding, Gloucestershire DAAT see
their role as providing strategic advice, coordination
and networking opportunities, and helping to
develop communications resources such as helplines
and printed materials.
“I’m very excited at the way this area of work is
developing,” says Alison Hustwitt, Gloucestershire
DAAT’s Community Support Worker,“the parents
and others groups are really finding their voice
and making a contribution in this county.”
For further info, contact Alison Hustwitt at
Gloucestershire DAAT Tel: 01242 548 832
Email: alison.hustwitt@glos.nhs.uk
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 7
 MOVERS AND SHAKERS
FAMILIES VIDEO
SHEFFIELD DRUG ACTION TEAM
As part of their role in coordinating and extending
family support services, Sheffield DAT has established
Sheffield Family & Friends Alliance group, a
membership group providing up to date information
about drugs and family support services, as well
as opportunities for training for parents and families.
The advisory group for the alliance, representing
a range of family support services, has recently
produced a video about the experience of families
affected by problematic drug use.
Aiming to reduce the stigma attached to family
support, and highlight the impact of drugs on
families and communities, the video will be used
in training and awareness activities with professionals
in the health, family support and criminal justice
fields, as well as with parents and drug users.
For further info, contact Tracey Ford, Family & Friends
Development Worker at Sheffield DAT
Tel: 0114 273 6851
Email: tracey.ford@sheffieldn-pct.nhs.uk
PARENTS, CARERS AND FAMILIES
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL SUPPORT
STRATEGY – BEDFORDSHIRE DRUG
ACTION TEAM (B:DAT)
B:DAT has produced a comprehensive three-year
strategy that sets out a framework, targets and action
plan for improved services for families. Within this,
'SPACED' - a joint specialist family support venture
between CAN & Addaction (funded by B:DAT &
CDRPs) - provides advice & information to parents
and partners of drug users countywide and support
for drug-using parents themselves. The initiative links
into a new Drugs, Alcohol & Sexual Health Worker
(DASH) post that B:DAT have created in Children's
Services. The parents accessing SPACED are also
involved with Regional Carers meetings and the
Bedfordshire Family Support Steering Group.
For further info, contact Jay Morley at B:DAT
Tel: 01234 408 051
Email: james.morley@bedscc.gov.uk
Web: www.bdat.org.uk
8 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
OCEAN PARENTS AGAINST DRUGS
TOWER HAMLETS COMMUNITY
DRUGS PROJECT
70% of the people who live on the Ocean Estate
in Tower Hamlets are originally from Bangladesh.
OPAD has been created in partnership with NAFAS,
a specialist agency for Bangladeshi drug users,
to meet the needs of Bangladeshi parents - many
of whom need basic information about drugs and
alcohol. To reduce stigma, drug awareness for
parents is built into existing events such as health
meetings, religious gatherings, and parenting
workshops. Meetings are advertised in local media,
and are accompanied by leaflets on issues like
heroin and crack cocaine in Bengali translation.
Leaflets are also delivered by hand, giving workers
the chance to engage in discussion face-to-face.
A video covering a range of parenting issues –
including drugs – has also proved invaluable,
encouraging open debate in households and at
meetings. OPAD is already working with projects in
Oldham and Luton to replicate and spread the
model it has used – and will shortly be mounting a
website to complement and publicise all its activity.
For further info, contact Tohel Ahmed at New Deal
for Communities, Tower Hamlets
Tel: 020 8709 300
Email: tohelahmed@oceanndc.co.uk
IDEAS FOR ACTION
We hope the ideas in this section help Don’t forget that other FRANK resources – especially
to kickstart your own thinking about the FRANK Display Kit, FRANK Activity Sheets and
media and public awareness work FRANK Fact Sheets - contain lots more ideas for local
relating to families. You may also find action. All these materials can be ordered using the
More FRANK order form at the back of this Update,
that some of the ideas in the FRANK
or online at www.drugs.gov.uk (where you can also
TIPS and FRANK ACTIVITIES sheets in download the Activity Sheets, Fact Sheets, FRANK
the back of this Update are useful for logo and brand guidelines).
media work.
ARRANGE A FAMILY PHONE-IN OPEN UP TO PARENTS
Why not contact your local radio stations and suggest Use local networks and links to set up information
a phone-in – and perhaps a debate – about families and learning events for parents. Be aware that the
and drugs? Remind them that this is a vital issue, stigma surrounding drug use may mean that parents
at the top of many parents’ concerns, so getting are not comfortable attending events at drugs
accurate advice out to families is important – and projects – or events which are billed as specifically
the subject should generate a lot of calls. Go with a focusing on drugs. It may be helpful to focus on
clear proposal about what you think the programme issues such as ‘living with teenagers’ and to have
could cover (but be prepared for it to go off track!). open evenings in a local school, a lunchtime talk in
Offer a spokesperson from your organisation and, a factory, a quiz in a pub, or an information stand at
if possible, a parent and/or a young person who is a bingo hall or shopping centre. Think through the
prepared to talk about their experience of dealing events, clubs and societies which gather together
with drug use in the family. You could also organise large numbers of adults (e.g. parents’ evenings,
a spokesperson from the local police or school if you rugby and cricket clubs, church meetings, arts
have good links. Make sure you get across the local centres etc.) and make sure you have a presence.
angle, as well as relevant statistics (like those in this
Update), plus details of your service, the FRANK Use events with parents
helpline, and relevant resources like the FRANK FRANK SCHOOL RUN to gather views,
Leaflet for Parents. An example press release for concerns and ideas
September hails the start of
radio phone-ins is provided on page 13. as well as to pass on
a new school year. The trip
to and from school each day information – and try
can be a good time for to include ice-breaker
GATHER THE EVIDENCE! parents and young people to and warm-up activities,
Use channels already at your disposal – like newsletters, talk about current worries perhaps encouraging
and concerns. Bear this in
websites, drop-in centres, events, helplines - to mind in the timing and format
people to remember
gather evidence of local concern and experience of any publicity or media their own experiences
about drugs in the family. Questions such as ‘Are you work about relevant services as teenagers. The FRANK
worried that a member of your family is using drugs?' – from morning phone-ins to Quiz for parents in the
or 'Would you know what to do if you found out your posters at school gates. Activity Sheets at the
child was using drugs?' could provide effective back of this update
‘hooks’ and headlines for local media work could be a useful warm-up, and the FRANK helpline
promoting relevant services and resources. and website, with their dedicated help for parents,
will give you a clear route to further support if your
services don’t already provide this. An example press
release for events is provided on page 11 .
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 9
 IDEAS FOR ACTION
COMBAT STIGMA
The stigma and fear attached to drug use can be
a real barrier to acknowledging problems in the
family and seeking help, and can make a bad
situation worse for affected families. This applies to
young people whose parents misuse drugs, as well
as parents whose children use drugs. On the basis of
the local situation, approach your local media with
potential story angles aimed at challenging stigma
and stereotypes (pointing out the prevalence of the
problems, de-bunking myths, and stressing that
people can get support). Remember, the voices of
people with personal experience are vital to any
anti-stigma campaign, and can be expressed via all
communications channels – from radio or
newspaper stories to posters, leaflets or talks.
SPOTLIGHT THE SOAPS
Whatever you think of how drugs are portrayed in TV
and radio soaps, these storylines provide a powerful
entrypoint to debate. Watch out for storylines
relating to drugs and families, and make sure you
video relevant episodes. Finding a local angle to a
current soap storyline can add to your case if you’re
trying to persuade the local media to cover drugs
issues, and you can use videos of relevant excerpts
at talks and events. To get permission for public
showings, or to track down specific episodes,
contact any helplines run by broadcasters (such as
the BBC Helpline on 0800 93 934 or Channel 4
Helpline on 0800 600 444), who may put you in touch
with the production office of the programme itself.
IT’S GOOD TO TALK
Parents often express the need for better
communication skills with their teenagers – and feel
this need acutely when it comes to drugs. Basic
information on effective communications can be a
real help as part of parents’ awareness materials.
See Useful Resources on page 14 for details of FRANK
resources for parents – all of which provide advice
on communications. Use FRANK’s resources –
including the material and information given in this
pack - to contribute to your own materials and
activities. An example press release for launching
new materials is provided on page 12.
10 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
PRESS RELEASES
FRANK AT WORK MODEL PRESS RELEASE ON PARENTS’ OPEN NIGHTS
Approach major employers in your area - factories,
business parks, supermarkets, hotels, taxi companies,
sports venues, hospitals, call centres etc. – and see
whether they would be prepared to work with you
to publicise services and information for parents and
families, including resources from FRANK. Newsletters,
notice boards, intranets,
reception areas,
FRANK CLOSE TO HOME
As well as helping to cafeterias and staff
empower and inform parents, rooms – and even pay
FRANK also offers help and packets! - are all great PRESS RELEASE (INSERT DATE)
advice to young people who places to get the
live with parents who regularly message across. This INVITATION TO PARENTS: A FRANK CHAT ABOUT DRUGS
use drugs or alcohol. Contact (Yourtown) Drug Action Team is organising an open evening for parents and carers
could be followed up
local schools to remind of young people aged 10–13 at (insert date, time, venue). Called ‘A FRANK CHAT
teachers of PSHE and with a workshop or talk
ABOUT DRUGS’ the evening will help parents and carers to find out more about
Citizenship about the FRANK during a lunch break or
drugs and learn some simple techniques for broaching the issues and starting a
service and suggest that they in the evening, perhaps constructive dialogue with their young teenagers. Parents attending will also receive
explore issues around adult involving a parent who free copies of A Parent’s Guide to Drugs and Alcohol, a free booklet produced by
drug and alcohol use. You has dealt with drug use FRANK, the national 24 hour confidential helpline for anyone concerned about drugs.
could encourage interested
or a small group of The evening will kick off with a quiz on drugs and an introduction by (insert name
teaching staff to register at
young people who are and job title) from (Yourtown) Drug Action Team. Other speakers include
the FRANK campaign pages
www.drugs.gov.uk, to get free prepared to explain (insert name), a young person who has used drugs in the past, and (insert name),
FRANK materials and regular their perspectives, a parent whose daughter has had problems with drugs. There will also be a screening
campaign updates. unravel the jargon or of an EastEnders episode featuring Janine Butcher and her cocaine problem.
voice their concerns. (Insert name), Drug Action Team spokesperson, says: "Parents are concerned about
See the FRANK Action Update – FRANK at Work for drugs, but often feel they don’t know where to turn for help and advice. We want
more information on drug and alcohol use in the them to know that our door is open to them, and that they can make a difference.
workplace and ideas for working with employers. We can provide clear, realistic information and advice about drugs in a way that
is going to help them talk to their kids with confidence. They can also ring FRANK
on 0800 77 66 00 any time for confidential information and advice."
HAVE A SLANGING MATCH! The evening is completely free, and no booking is required.
Times change – and so does the slang! At events For more information please call (insert name) on (insert number).
involving parents and young people, or as part of
radio programmes or print media, highlighting the NOTES TO EDITORS
slang used by different generations can be a fun
– Background facts and figures on young people and drugs have been produced
way of starting debate about what it’s like to be
by the FRANK campaign and are available from (Yourtown) Drug Action Team.
young, and how youth culture has moved on.
Adventurous groups might even be prepared to – FRANK is available 24 hours a day on 0800 77 66 00 to provide help for anyone
with any questions about drugs and can be called for advice, help or just a chat.
organise a ‘slanging match’, where older and
Information is also available from the website, talktofrank.com
younger people take it in turns to say a slang word
from their generation, with the ‘oldies’ and ‘kids’
gaining points for whichever words they can
correctly identify. Here’s a few to get you going!
70’s & 80’s: Jars, Blues, Lewds, Red Leb, Gold Seal,
Mary Jane 0800 77 66 00 talktofrank.com
2003: Stush, Blazin, Billing up, Mushies,
Muntered, Chisel
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 11
 PRESS RELEASES
MODEL PRESS RELEASE ON PARENTS’ AWARENESS MATERIALS
PRESS RELEASE
(INSERT DATE)
DO YOUR KIDS KNOW MORE ABOUT DRUGS THAN YOU?
Research shows that parents can play a vital role in young people’s attitudes to
drugs. To make sure that local parents feel informed and confident about talking
to their children, (Yourtown) Drug Action Team has teamed up with FRANK, the
national 24-hour confidential helpline, to produce a guide to having a FRANK
conversation with your child about drugs.
Drugs: be FRANK with your kids is an easy to read booklet covering the facts about
key drugs, as well as how best to communicate with young people at different
ages, and where to go for help and advice. Available free to all local parents, the
guide has been produced by (Yourtown) Drug Action Team, and is available FREE
to local parents, subject to availability. Production of the guide has been
sponsored by (Yourtown) Printers, who provided their services for free.
Key messages from the booklet for parents who think their child might be involved
with drugs are:
• Stay calm. Panic is a natural reaction but you'll only be able to have a
constructive conversation if you're feeling in control and ready to listen
• Read up on the facts, knowledge is power!
• Don't get hung up on blaming someone, either yourself, your child or their mates
• Focus on your child, not you and your reactions, and not the drug. Make sure the
conversation is about them
• Reassure them - make sure your child knows you're there for them
• Ring FRANK on 0800 77 66 00 for free, confidential advice 24 hours a day
For more information please call (insert name) on (insert number).
NOTES TO EDITORS
– Interviews with parents whose children have used drugs can be arranged
on request.
– Background facts and figures on young people and drugs have been produced
by the FRANK campaign and are available from (Yourtown) Drug Action Team.
– FRANK is available on 0800 77 66 00 to provide help for anyone with any
questions about drugs and can be called for advice, help or just a chat.
Information is also available from the website, talktofrank.com
0800 77 66 00 talktofrank.com
12 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
PRESS RELEASES
MODEL PRESS RELEASE ON RADIO PHONE-IN
PRESS RELEASE (INSERT DATE)
LISTEN UP! YOUNG PEOPLE, PARENTS AND DRUGS
As part of an on-going local debate about parents, young people and drugs,
(Yourtown) Drugs Project is organising a radio phone-in for parents and young
people to debate how parents deal with drug issues – and the kind of support
from parents that young people feel they need. The phone-in will be broadcast at
(insert date, time) on (Yourtown) Radio Station (insert frequency).
The on air debate follows last week’s successful open evening at (Yourtown)
Secondary School about the role of parents in influencing young people’s choices
on drugs. At the event, parents completed a survey about their knowledge and
concerns on drugs, and young people from the school presented a video about
how they view drugs.
“As soon as we told them about the issues raised at last week’s open evening and
showed them the results of our parents’ poll which showed that 90% of parents felt
they needed more information and advice on drugs, (Yourtown) Local Radio was
keen to host the phone-in,” said (insert name and job title) of (Yourtown) Drugs
Project.“We know that parents and carers can play a vital role in helping young
people deal with drugs, if only they have the information and the confidence. We
are here to make sure they get the information they need.”
Parents who are concerned should tune in to the phone-in, or ring FRANK on 0800
77 66 00 any time for free, confidential information and advice.
For more information, please call (insert name) on (insert number).
NOTES TO EDITORS
– The results of the (Yourtown) Drugs Project survey are available on request.
– Interviews with parents whose children have used drugs can be arranged
on request.
– Background facts and figures on young people and drugs have been produced
by the FRANK campaign and are available from (Yourtown) Drug Action Team.
– FRANK is available on 0800 77 66 00 to provide help for anyone with any
questions about drugs and can be called for advice, help or just a chat.
Information is also available from the website, talktofrank.com
0800 77 66 00 talktofrank.com
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 13
 USEFUL RESOURCES USEFUL RESOURCES
ORGANISATIONS
FRANK FOR PARENTS AND CARERS ADFAM
National organisation which aims to raise awareness of,
and take action to alleviate family problems associated
FRANK is here to make sure that parents and carers – as well as young people – get the information and advice
with drugs and alcohol. Also produces research and
they need to deal with their concerns about drugs, and to support their children in dealing with drugs issues. support materials. Website has a search facility to find local
FRANK’s resources for parents and carers are there to help YOU help parents, and to serve as a background family support groups.
resource for your own materials and activities. For more information on any of FRANK’s services or resources, Tel: 020 7928 8898
please ring the FRANK campaign helpline on 020 7273 3833, or email the FRANK campaign team at Email: admin@adfam.org.uk
Web: www.adfam.org.uk
frank@homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk.
AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS UK AND EIRE
Understanding, support and information (including
publications) and local groups for families and friends of
CALL FRANK people with alcohol problems, including young people
affected by their parents drinking.
FRANK is available at the end of the phone (0800 77 66 00), on the web (talktofrank.com) or by email
Tel: London Branch: 020 7403 0888
(frank@talktofrank.com) to talk to young people, parents and carers concerned about drugs. FRANK can also (helpline open 10am - 4pm; or ring 020 7407 8180 or 7878
put callers in touch with local services in their area, and can send out free information materials. out of hours) Glasgow branch: 0141 339 8884 (10am - 4pm)
Web: www.al-anonuk.org.uk
Staff at the FRANK helpline are specially trained to support parents and carers in understanding drugs issues,
ALATEEN
and in communicating sensitively with their children about drugs.
Part of the Al-Anon fellowship for young people, aged 12 to
20, who are affected by a problem drinker. Members share
ideas, experience and support, often in local groups.
Alateen also produces support materials.
LOG ON TO FRANK Tel: 020 7403 0888 (helpline open 24 hours)
Web: www.al-anonuk.org.uk/alateen.php
The FRANK website, talktofrank.com, contains accessible information on a wide
range of drugs, as well as practical advice for parents, carers and friends on CHILDLINE
raising the issues, as well as a searchable database of local services. The loose The UK's free, 24-hour helpline for children or young people
sheets at the back of this Update reproduce some of the information from the in trouble or danger.
website, and provide further useful material. Tel: 0800 11 11 (helpline open 24 hours)
Web: www.childline.org.uk
FAMILIES ANONYMOUS (FA)
A worldwide fellowship of relatives and friends of people
involved in the abuse of mind-altering substances, or with
READ FRANK related behavioural problems. Many local groups across
the UK.
As well as accessible leaflets on drugs for 11-14 and 14-16 year-olds, and a short leaflet for
Tel: 0845 1200 660 (office open weekdays 1-4pm. Contact
parents, FRANK produces an informative Parents’ Guide to Drugs & Alcohol. This 22-page people are available between 6-10pm evenings and
booklet covers basic information about drugs, background to the law, practical advice on weekends: the numbers for each day are left on the
understanding substance issues from young people’s perspective, and guides on effective answerphone)
support and communication at different key ages. The guide is available free to parents Email: office@famanon.org.uk
Web: www.famanon.org.uk
via talktofrank.com and can be ordered using the More FRANK order form at the back of
this update. PARENTS AGAINST DRUG ABUSE (PADA)
An organisation set up to support parents of drug users.
Runs support groups across the UK and a helpline. A large
percentage of helpline workers have experienced drug use
within their own families.
And don’t forget the FRANK resources provided at the back of this Update. Material for parents includes Drugs:
Tel: 08457 023 867 (helpline)
a Parents’ Guide, Drugs: Be FRANK with your Kids and Drugs in your Family. There is also an advice sheet for Email: admin@pada.org.uk
friends called Drugs: Be FRANK with your Mates. Finally, there is an advice sheet for young people whose Web: www.pada.org.uk
parents misuse drugs or alcohol called When Your Parents Have a Drug Problem. This contains basic advice,
for use as part of on-going interventions and support.
14 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family
PARENTING EDUCATION & SUPPORT FORUM
National umbrella organisation for people who work in
parenting education and support. Wide range of learning,
support and training activities to help those in a parenting
role to improve their understanding of their own and their
children's personal, social, emotional, intellectual and
physical needs.
Tel: 020 7284 8370
Email: pesf@dial.pipex.com
Web: www.parenting-forum.org.uk
DRUG CONCERN (previously known as PARENTS FOR
PREVENTION)
Helpline, support groups and training for parents and carers
concerned about their child's drug use.
Tel: 0845 120 3745 (helpline open 9 am to 5 pm Monday
to Thursday, and 9 am to 4.30 pm Friday. At evenings and
weekends, leave your name and number on the
answerphone and a volunteer will get back to you.)
RELEASE
Provides a range of services dedicated to meeting the
health, welfare and legal needs of drug users and those
who live and work with them. Has recently launched a
support and information service for heroin users and
people who care for them.
Tel: 020 7729 5255
Email: info@release.org.uk
Web: www.release.org.uk
RE-SOLV
The biggest charity that solely deals with solvent abuse. Has
a national free helpline, factsheets, research and information
specifically tailored for parents.
Tel: 0808 800 2345 (helpline open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm,
excluding public holidays)
Email: helpline@re-solv.org
Web: www.re-solv.org
PARENTLINE PLUS
Support to anyone parenting a child – the child's parents,
stepparents, grand parents and foster parents. Runs a
freephone helpline, courses for parents, develops projects
and provides a range of information.
Tel: 0808 800 2222 (helpline 24 hours)
Email: centraloffice@parentlineplus.org.uk
Web: www.parentlineplus.org.uk
TRUST FOR THE STUDY OF ADOLESCENCE
Research, training, publications and projects aimed
at improving the lives of young people and families.
Tel: 01273 693311
Email: info@tsa.uk.com Web: www.tsa.uk.com
FRANK Action Update – We Are Family 15
 USEFUL RESOURCES

WEBSITES PUBLICATIONS & AWARENESS

www.alcoholconcern.org.uk
Alcohol Concern is the national agency for alcohol misuse.
Website contains factsheets, publications, an online library
database, news about what is happening in the alcohol
field and links to useful websites.
www.cascade-drugs.org.uk
Drug information service for young people, parents, users,
carers and professionals. Much of the website has been put
together by young people. It includes drug facts, discussion
boards and a problem page for parents.
www.drugscope.org.uk
In-depth information on all aspects of drug use, with frequently
asked questions about drugs in the ‘Drug Information’ section.
www.e-parents.org
Online resource for parents offers advice on various topics,
including dealing with children with behavioural problems,
parenting teenagers, and how to parent when you are in a
crisis. Created by the National Family and Parenting Institute.
www.familyrapp.com
A website designed to answer many different parenting
questions in a single site. Includes a drugs section and
discussion boards.
MATERIALS
ADFAM
Range of resources for people affected by someone’s
drug use including leaflets for parents, partners, siblings
and friends of drug users as well as reports for professionals.
Also offer publications for children whose parents take
drugs, grandparents and those who have been bereaved
by drug use.
Tel: 020 7928 8898
Email: admin@adfam.org.uk
Web: www.adfam.org.uk
AL-ANON / ALATEEN
Range of publications on living with an alcoholic partner
or parent, all of which can be ordered from their website.
Web: www.al-anonuk.org.uk
British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF)
Publication Children Exposed to Parental Substance
Misuse aimed at both families and professionals and
all those dealing with the consequences of parental
substance misuse. Tackles practice, policy and research
issues surrounding parental substance misuse and its
effects on children.
Web: www.baaf.org.uk

www.raisingkids.co.uk FAMILIES ANONYMOUS

Support, information, and friendship to everyone who's
raising kids. Provides advice and professional opinions and
hosts online discussions.
www.parentlineplus.org.uk
Charity offering information and support for anyone
parenting a child.
www.spig.clara.net
The Shared Parenting Information Group provides
information on how both parents can retain a strong
positive role in their children’s lives after divorce or separation.
A wide range of materials for friends and families of drug
users, based on the Twelve Step approach, all of which can
be ordered via a printable order form from their website.
Web: www.famanon.org.uk
LIFELINE
Leaflets on Drug Myths and Drug Facts for parents, plus
parents’ leaflets on the South Asian Community and Drugs
(in Urdu/English and Bengali/English).
Tel: 0161 839 2075
Email: publications@lifeline.org.uk
Web: www.lifeline.org.uk

www.thefamilyfactfile.com PARENTING EDUCATION & SUPPORT FORUM

A resource for parents that provides information on drugs. Resources for professionals working in parenting education
Includes helplines, an A-Z of drugs, legal facts, and advice and support, many of which are available to download
on drugs in schools. Also has an online roleplay section. free from their website.
Tel: 020 7284 8370
www.thesite.org Email: pesf@dial.pipex.com
A ‘guide to the real world’ for young people aged 16-25 Web: www.parenting-forum.org.uk
with accessible info and advice on drugs, health, sex and
relationships, plus in-depth features on clubbing, festivals,
holidays and student life. Well-used discussion boards. This listing is provided for information only. Inclusion
does not imply endorsement of resources listed.
www.ukparents.co.uk
A magazine site for parents. Includes discussion boards
and problem pages with drugs information.
And don’t forget talktofrank.com
for information and advice on drugs

16 FRANK Action Update – We Are Family