A GRASS-ROOTS approach is aiming to put a dent in the deadly impact of drugs on Mount Isa residents.
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The advent of newer, more toxic drugs arriving on the scene has parents and families concerned.
Community Yarning Circle sessions organisers Stephanie King and Leann Shaw say the gatherings are focused on empowering everyday people to get the skills to be able to deal with the impacts of drug issues in Mount Isa.
The Community Yarning Circle began late last year and organisers will hold another session this Saturday.
One of the key messages is making the community aware – both drug users and the family and friends of those affected – that help is available.
“There are a lot of parents with kids and young people, and even some older people who don’t know how to cope with drug use,” Ms Shaw said.
“The sessions are about empowering people to seek help, and to let them know that they are not alone and there are organisations, supports and people who care about you and will help.”
Ms Shaw said a range of new substances such as synthetic drugs and methamphetamine were confronting for families who were unsure of how to deal with the dangers of previously unheard-of drugs.
“Families are unsure how to cope with it, as some of the drugs have varying effects and the language around them is so different,” she said.
Ms King tragically lost her partner Allan Hughes on New Year’s Day last year, and is now raising her two-year-old son, Franklin, on her own.
“I don’t want this to happen to anyone and by sharing our stories through talking about it, we can only hope to see some positive social changes come from it,” she said.
The death of Mr Hughes, 27, was one of five deaths in Mount Isa that have been linked to MDPV, also known as “bath salts” or synthetic speed.
The Community Yarning Circle session will be held at Tarabada House on 21 Isa Street from 10am on Saturday.