West Mercia's police and crime commissioner has expressed his support for the government's plan to combat drug and alcohol misuse.

PCC John Campion is optimistic about the UK-wide investment of £267 million as part of the government's 'From Harm to Hope' drugs strategy, which he will lead in West Mercia.

The strategy, a 10-year blueprint to help improve available treatment to those struggling with drug addiction, has ambitious plans to lower overall use to a historic near 30-year low in hopes of reducing crime.

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A government-wide effort, its aims can be simplified into three core priorities: disrupting the drug supply chain whilst also lessening the demand for drugs; delivering a world-class treatment and recovery system to addicts, and reducing the overall demand for recreational drugs.

The funds are to be dispensed in April 2024, with the ultimate aim of saving lives by stopping and reducing the cycle of crime that can be traced back to addictions.

The plan is backed by an unprecedented investment of nearly £900 million of funding over the Spending Review period, taking the total investment over three years to an impressive £3 billion.

PCC Campion, senior responsible officer for the local combatting drugs partnerships in West Mercia, will play a vital role in spearheading the initiative in the region, with efforts across the country needed to achieve the government's ultimate long-term goal.

He said: "I hear regularly from residents about their concerns in relation to drugs and the crime associated with its use, therefore this additional funding is going to make a real difference.

“It will provide further support to the work myself and the Combatting Drugs Partnerships are already undertaking in West Mercia by educating people about the dangers of drugs, intervening with the right help when substance misuse happens and enforcing the law to stop criminals profiting from misery."

He continued: “I am committed to tackling the issue of drug misuse within society and ensuring those who need it receive the best support they can to overcome their addiction and prevent harm being caused to others.”