Youths spell out drugs danger

Young people get message across about drugs

Young people in west Belfast have united to put their peers in the picture about drugs.

Teenagers from the Shankill Road area are launching a series of unique posters and leaflets on Thursday.

They have created hard-hitting literature dealing with the facts and risks of taking ecstasy, heroin, prescription drugs and LSD.

Jim Weir, a community support officer for the Forum for Action on Substance Abuse, which organised the project, said the message on drugs was coming from those who knew their target market best.

"We have recognised through extensive experience of working with young people, that youth-led resources are more effective at engaging other young people," Mr Weir said.

"The young people have expert knowledge on the innovative designs, language, depth of information and the most important points that will appeal to other young people.

"It is this formula which has led our literature to become the most sought after and informative resource and the credit is due to the hard work and determination of young people, helping their peers and the next generation."

The leaflets and posters were designed as part of a major initiative funded by Belfast Local Strategy Partnership under an EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation.

At an event in the Spectrum Centre on Belfast's Shankill Road on Thursday, organisers will pay tribute to the young people's hard work.

The project was set up to engage young people and raise awareness about drugs.

It also offered tutoring on the design process.