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.