Hume community groups have joined forces to host a forum in a bid to combat the city’s “ice” epidemic and raise awareness of the horrors of the drug.
Methamphetamine, often referred to as meth or ice, has become widespread because of its availability and affordability.
The Sunbury police and community consultative committee (PCCC), partnered by community health services, will address the problems of addiction and highlight available support services in the area at tomorrow night’s forum.
Former AFL player Gavin Crosisca and the chief executive officer and founder of Alcohol And Drug Help, Belinda Walsh, will share their experiences and insights.
Crosisca will speak about his addiction and recovery before inviting the community to ask questions about his journey.
Ms Walsh said they wanted to help break down the stigma of addiction and encourage those suffering to seek help.
“We wish to empower those in attendance about what they can do and help make sense of treatment options for family members and their loved ones,” she said. “We need to demystify the lie that an addict has to hit rock bottom before they seek help.”
Sunbury police sergeant John Letchford urged parents and young adults to attend the forum and familiarise themselves with the ice scourge.
“There are telltale signs of a meth user: skin imperfections, extreme mood swings, rapid weight loss, anorexia, scratching and itching, and red, scabby acne,” he said. “If parents see a small plastic bag with a white crystal powder – that’s meth.”
In 2012-13, Victoria Police recorded an increase of 14 per cent in drug offences across the state compared with the previous year.
Sergeant Letchford said most crime in the district was drug-related.
“To acquire money for their drug habit, people go out and commit theft and burglary,” he said.
The community is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 if they are aware of someone using, selling or manufacturing drugs.
The free forum is from 7-9pm on Wednesday, July 30, at Sunbury Memorial Hall, Stawell Street, Sunbury.
