Q: Why do young people use drugs and alcohol?

A: There are many different reasons why young people use drugs and alcohol.

For details on drugs and young people visit www.addaction.org.uk.

Q: How do I know if the young person in my care is taking drugs or using alcohol?

A: The behaviour of young people changes, as they get older. Growing up is hard and a change in behaviour does not necessarily mean that they are using drugs or alcohol.

Talking to young people about any issue can be difficult. Talk openly with young people about drugs and alcohol from a young age so that possible future issues can be dealt with calmly and without confrontation.

If you are concerned that a young person in your care is using drugs or alcohol remember DO NOT PANIC.

Open communication will enable you to assess the severity of the situation and ascertain why they might be using drugs or alcohol.

Tips on talking openly to young people about drugs and alcohol can be found at www.talktofrank.com which also includes specific advice to parents and carers.

Q: How do I stop the young person in my care from using drugs and alcohol?

A: You cannot stop a young person from doing what they want to do; it is down to them to want to stop. However, you can establish some boundaries and guidelines that might influence the choices a young person makes.

Visit www.addaction.org.uk for further help and advice.

Q: If I know the young person in my care is taking illegal drugs, where do I stand legally?

A: As a parent or carer of a young person you are not legally bound to inform the police if the young person in your care is using illegal drugs. However, if you knowingly allow a young individual to use illegal substances on your premises you are convictable under the Misuse of Drugs Act.   Any young person over the age of 16 is classified as an adult.

Visit the Leicestershire Constabulary's website to find details of penalties for the possession and supply of illegal drugs.