New Strategic direction for Alcohol and Drugs - Phase 2

The cross-departmental strategy to reduce the harm related to substance misuse in Northern Ireland, known as the New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs (NSD) Phase 2, was launched in 2012. This is the third annual report of progress against the outcomes and indicators set out in that document. For the first time, this annual report also includes progress against the medium and long term outcomes included in the NSD Phase 2. This should help focus action over the next two years of the strategy’s delivery. (*the first two update reports are also available online: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/pdf_version_-_nsd_phase_2_update_report-_marc... and http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/nsd-phase-2-2nd-annual-report-june-2014.pdf).   The report is structured as follows: • Chapter 1 sets out the background to the development of the strategy; • Chapter 2 summarises the revised approach taken in the NSD Phase 2; • Chapter 3 provides an update on the key indicators available since the last report; • Chapter 4 shows progress on the outcomes in the NSD Phase 2; and • Chapter 5 provides a summary and concluding comments  

The Health Behaviours in School Children (HBSC) survey 2014

The Health Behaviours in School Children (HBSC) survey 2014 shows that overall health levels are good. There are encouraging findings on consumption of fruit and vegetables, teeth cleaning, and a drop in smoking levels and consumption of sweets and soft drinks.  However, many children said they find it easy to get cigarettes, too many children are going to bed hungry, and there are concerns about levels of cyber bullying. A total of 13,611 pupils were surveyed with questions on topics like general health, food and dietary behaviour, exercise and physical activity, self-care, smoking, use of alcohol and other substances, bullying including cyber bullying, and sexual health behaviours.