The Guardian/Mixmag drug survey (Who cares what's in it? Truth about young people and drugs, 15 March) highlights the important role preventive intervention must play in reducing drug use by working in education, targeting those at schools, colleges and universities. The provision of support to family and friends is essential so they can spot the signs of drug misuse early on, and avoid consumption spinning out of control.
However, while we acknowledge the relevance of this survey, we must recognise that it is not representative of the drug-user population as a whole but rather a self-selecting survey of a particular social group. It is vital that we address the wider social problems associated with drug and substance misuse, which affect people from all walks of life throughout the country, not just those who have responded to this survey.
David Royce
Chief executive, CRI
