Sir.-Many parents will be alarmed by the headline "Cocaine town" and the increasing acceptability of this illegal drug is a real concern.
Unfortunately, we live in an instant-gratification, quick-fix, "pill-for-every-ill" society.
In a responsible community, control is needed, especially protection for the young and vulnerable.
At the same time, care is required for those whose lives are affected by substance misuse.
However, education is vital to enable young people to make informed choices.
At Hope UK, we believe that parents and carers have an important part to play.
There is no simplistic solution, but charities such as Hope UK and Care for the Family have developed programmes which will help parents steer the next generation of young people away from misusing drugs.
Martin Perry,
head of education,
Hope UK,
London.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article