Coming Together on Substance Abuse is a Beginning Staying the Course is Progress, and Working Together is a Success

• NCJ Number: 217137
• Journal: Forum on Corrections Research Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Dated: June 2006 Pages: 3-5
• Author(s): Michel Perron; Beth Pieterson
• Date Published: June 2006
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program Description (Model)
• Language: English
• Country: Canada

Annotation

This article describes the development of the National Framework for Action to Reduce the Harms Associated with Alcohol and Other Drugs and Substances in Canada (the National Framework).

Abstract

The National Framework provides a comprehensive plan for reducing the harms associated with alcohol and drug abuse. Main goals of the National Framework are: (1) “to create supportive environments that promote health and resiliency of individuals, families and communities in order to prevent problematic use of alcohol and other drugs and substances;” and (2) “to reduce the harms associated with alcohol and other drugs and substances to individuals, families and communities across Canada.” The National Framework is noteworthy because it brings together a broad group of partners, including Aboriginal organizations, non-governmental organizations, industry, all levels of government, addictions and enforcement agencies, academic and legal associations, human rights organizations, the medication community, and caregivers. The underpinnings of the National Framework were agreed to by these stakeholders at a national forum held in Montreal in June 2005. The partnership came about as a result of three pivotal reports published in 2001 and 2002 that argued for greater Federal leadership and for a national plan of action to address problematic drug use in Canada. In May 2003, Canada’s Drug Strategy (CDS) committed $16.4 million over 5 years for leadership and other activities related to a national plan of action. Health Canada, its CDS partners, and the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA) held a series of roundtable meetings beginning in May 2004 to gauge support for a national plan of action and to begin formulating the key elements for a framework, such as a vision, principles, and goals. Nine principles were agreed upon as the underpinning for the National Framework, including the view that “problematic substance use is a health issue.” Future plans for the partnership are discussed and include the identification of partners who are willing to assume leadership roles on specific issues contained within the National Framework. 8 notes