More than 150 people from key organisations and groups in the town heard about issues associated with alcohol and drugs misuse at the Middlesbrough Partnership Forum on Wednesday 21 October 2009. The event was held during Alcohol Awareness Week and those attending were urged to rethink their own attitudes to drink as part of the presentations on the day.

Delegates heard about the impact of alcohol and drug misuse on crime, health and local communities – and some of the positive work being done in Middlesbrough. Colin Shevills, Director of Balance - the North East’s first regional Alcohol Office – shared details of alcohol’s effect on the region and presented initial findings from the recent ‘Big Drink’ debate survey.

Cleveland Police's District Commander, Steve Sugden, talked about the impact of alcohol and drugs on crime and communities and Dr Mark Reilly, Assistant Director of Public Health Intelligence for North Tees, addressed the health implications.

Short drama performances by local drama students gave an insight into how alcohol and drug misuse affects individuals, their friends, colleagues, families and communities. Local individuals who have been involved with alcohol and drug misuse gave the audience details of their personal stories, how they had recovered and the support that helped them through.

Those present were asked to make personal and professional pledges on how they could contribute to tackling the issues of alcohol and drug misuse in the Middlesbrough.

This Partnership Forum provided an ideal opportunity to showcase the many projects in Middlesbrough that are tackling these urgent issues – and getting results. Delegates heard first-hand accounts of what is being done to address these issues and how people have won through their difficulties, sometimes against huge odds.

The agenda, presentations and photographs from the event can be accessed via the links below