School drug misuse policy set out

The policy assists staff in dealing with drugs issues in schools

A policy to tackle substance misuse in schools has been drawn up in the Scottish Borders.

The document is designed to help teachers provide a "fair and measured response" if students are caught with drugs or show symptoms of taking them.

The strategy updates a policy which was put together by Scottish Borders Council about three years ago.

If approved by councillors, the new guidelines would come into force in the region later this month.

The policy provides instruction for education staff on how to deal with substance misuse incidents.

That includes the use of drugs, alcohol or "volatile substances".

It also outlines how to tackle situations with pupils who show symptoms of misuse problems or sell or take drugs on school property.

The strategy will come up for review again in 2011.