BHB Offers Drug Prevention Seminar for Young People

Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) will host a one-day conference on July 8 at the Berkeley Institute New Senior Secondary School, aimed at drug prevention for children. Mr. Wayne Perinchef, Minister for National Drug Control will officially open the conference, which is scheduled from 1:00pm to 4:00pm.

Working with professionals from the police, Ministry of Education, National Drug Control, PRIDE, CADA, Bermuda Youth Counseling Services, Benedicts Associates and Turning Point, the seminar, “We Don’t Play With Drugs,” is free of charge and open to children of employees.

Derek Caines, BHB Employee Labour Relations Officer, explained the importance of hosting the conference. “BHB is committed to working with our community partners on the issue of drug prevention. We recognized the need for education programmes for our employees and their families.”

Research has shown drug and alcohol use increase during the summer for adults and children. “Our intent is to provide families with the necessary arsenal to combat drugs and alcohol as they enjoy the summer months. Offering this seminar will help them deal proactively with the issue,” said Mr. Caines.

Reports in The Royal Gazette this year confirm that children under 10 years of age are drinking alcohol. Further concerns have been expressed about marijuana use. Mr. Caines pointed out, “The effects of drug and alcohol use by children impact our community in many negative ways, as we are seeing more frequently. The conference is a positive step toward educating young people about engaging in high risk behaviour.”

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