Advice against all principles

I am a drugs worker currently working in harm minimisation projects in the Borders.

Having grown up in Shetland, moving away in my mid twenties I am well versed in the drink/drug culture of the isles. 

Imagine my surprise then when I read that “alleged experienced CADSS drugs workers” are “advising” Shetland folk that “a couple of lines of coke help you keep drinking all night”.  (Other drugs replace heroin as highest risk, SN, 19 Dec. 12)

One can only assume that this worker is not experienced in harm minimisation approaches? 

I have worked up and down the country (I am now in my late forties) as a drugs worker and I have never seen such a public statement that goes against the principles of protecting people from misusing substances? 

Why inform people who are possibly ignorant of such facts?  They certainly won’t be now.  It will be interesting to see if the numbers of people using a couple of lines of coke while drinking alcohol increases. 

I doubt whether anyone would be brave enough to share those facts and figures?

Kay Thomson
Borders