Illicit drug use: information-giving strategies requested by students in higher education

Abstract

This study forms part of a two-year project at a UK university in which the provision of information to students about illicit drugs was explored alongside the development of supportive systems and policies within the university. A questionriaire and focus-group study was undertaken to identify students' perceived need for information and support. Students rejected the traditional 'one-off' campaigning strategy in favour of an on-going process of information- giving which occurs unobtrusively in the course of everyday life. Specifically, this information should focus on the confidential nature of help available and the implications of drug-taking while at university.