Essex youngsters are taking to drugs earlier and do not receive enough help from social services, a new report claims.

The Essex Drug Action Team interviewed 87 Health and care workers and 76 under-19 drug-users throughout the county to find out why young people take to drugs, what services were available or were most needed, and the extent of the problem.

The study, funded by the North and South Essex Health Authorities, showed that two-thirds of young users - half of which were under 16 - had no contact with any services.

And there were clear signs there should be specific support services set up for young people.

Peter Hassard, of Colchester-based North East Essex Drugs and Alcohol Service (Needas), said today (Friday): "I have yet to see the report but there is a general recognition that having specific young people's services for drug and alcohol would be more suitable than having them bolted on to the adult service."

There is an under-18s service in Chelmsford but addicts in north Essex have to attend the Needas centre, which also caters for adults.

The professionals interviewed said drug use was widespread in Essex and the extent of the problem was often underestimated with 90 per cent calling for a fast and flexible assessment programme.

Drug abuse by young people should be a central concern of child mental health services, the survey said.

First use at seven for some children

The study found the age of first use of drugs ranged from just seven to 15. Parents using drugs was seen as a factor in earlier use.

Alcohol and cannabis - used daily or regularly by 91 per cent - were the most popular drugs, but 32 per cent had smoked heroin and claimed it could be bought for as little as £2.

More than 60 per cent had tried cocaine or crack, with a sizeable minority reporting weekly use. Ecstasy use was in decline, with most young users citing recent deaths caused by the drug.

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