DARE CHIEF: 'TELL US WHAT YOU THINK'

ANTI-DRUGS charity DARE has been 'staggered' by the response from
parents and teachers after it was revealed that Notts Police has cut
UKP180,000 of funding for the project.

A special vote line has now been set up after the charity was
inundated with calls from schools and families, desperate for the
project to keep running.

DARE chief executive Paul Smedley, says he and the team have been
overwhelmed by the positive comment from the community, and wants
parents in Bassetlaw to join the debate.

"We want people to ring, text, or email us what they think of DARE.
We want to know what's good, what could be changed, and what needs to
stay," he said.

"There are plenty of ways for people to get in touch. There is a
special voteline, and a questionnaire on the website. All the
responses we get will help us to form our programmes in the future."

After the shock funding cut, DARE is now regrouping and looking at
how to deliver its drug and life-skills education sessions in a new way.

Previously, retired police officers were paid to go into schools.
However, it is the money to pay these people that has been cut,
forcing the charity to become more creative with delivering its message.

"In the long term this may end up being a good thing. We are having
to make sure what we are delivering is up to date, and what the
people want," said Mr Smedley.

"I will be talking with our key partners in the next few days to
discuss the future, and of course we will be keeping the public updated."

"All these positive comments from the community could also help us
when looking for alternative sources of funding, so we are really
grateful to everyone who contributes."

Mr Smedley also urged people to contact their local councillors and
Bassetlaw MP John Mann with their thoughts on the future of DARE.

To complete the online questionnaire, visit www.dare.uk.com. You can
also contact DARE by emailing enquiries@dare.uk.com or calling 0115 900 7232.

Alternatively, take part in DARE's text vote: Do you think Notts
Police should continue to fund DARE to provide our children with drug
and life-skills education? Telephone: 0901 801 5643 Yes 0901 801 5644
No Call Charges: Calls cost 10p. Mobiles and Payphones will vary.