13 DEC | 2018

The Salvation Army says increased support, announced today for New Zealanders suffering from the impact of drugs will save lives.

The Army is pleased to see the announcement by the government today that police will be encouraged to direct people who are suffering from drug addiction towards the help they need, National Director of Addiction Services Lt-Col Lynette Hutson says.

"People who are in the grips of addiction need help, not punishment. When that happens it makes the whole of society safer and better off. This approach, going hand in hand with efforts to reduce the supply of drugs into our society will save lives."

The Salvation Army's State of Our Communities report, released yesterday, showed people around the country calling for help to deal with teh impact of drugs in their communities.

It is good to see the government responding to communities crying out for help, with efforts to address the supply of dangerous synthetic drugs and extra funding for treatment and prevention, Lt-Col Hutons says.

"These drugs, including synthetics, are killing our people and damaging so many lives. We see that everyday, as one of the country's biggest addictions providers, and we're increasingly hearing from communities that they need this help. So, we're grateful to hear Minister Clarke's acknowledgment today that more investment will be needed in addiction services."

Issued on the Authority of Commissioner Andy Westrupp (Territorial Commander)

The Salvation Army, New Zealand Fiji, Tonga & Samoa Territory

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