12th January 2016
2
Editorial What is your age?
What year are you in?
The Concrete Drugs and Alcohol Survey is a yearly affair. Drugs and alcohol form an important part of university life, whether you take them, or are affected by them, so it makes sense that we try to provide an accurate picture of that side of university life. Previously, the supplement had been a statisticians dream, and whilst this year will still have lots of information, we have room for people to add their opinions, and tell us why they do what they do. They offer opinion and insight that might challenge your own views: give them a read, you might be surprised. Concrete neither condemns nor condones the views found inside, and we would never seek to judge based on choices. We hope you enjoy the supplement, and would like to thank the 439 of you that took part in the survey. Sam McKinty News Editor
How Nightline can help you Sean Harbottle External coordinator, Norwich Nightline
What is your gender?
Whether you’re a regular user or completely teetotal, drugs are always there at uni. And whether you feel you or your friends are addicted, or you’re able to control your intake, they’ll always have some sort of effect on your experience there. Here at UEA, we’re lucky to have a dedicated night service that supports students who are struggling with drugs in any way. Of course we’re lucky to have a 24/7 security service, and our Links service on LCR nights to ensure the physical wellbeing of each student. I’m fortunate enough to work for Norwich Nightline, a student listening service which helps with the emotional wellbeing of students. Our service works on CANNN principles: being confidential, anonymous, non-advisory, non-directive and non-judgemental. This basically means that the call comes down to you - however much you want to disclose, however much you want to talk. We act to let you talk through your problems in a safe space without fear of judgement. In fact, a significant percentage of those who drop in or call us are involved with drugs in some way: whether they’re looking after a friend under the influence, coming to terms with the possibility of addiction, or even just using a bit of Dutch courage to talk about issues that have been affecting them for a while. As a confidential and non-judgemental service, we aim to make sure you never feel that there’s something you can’t talk about. We’re there to listen every night from 20:00 to 08:00- you can drop into our office on campus at Suffolk Terrace Block A, email, text, IM, Skype or call us about anything you’re through with drugs (and anything else). Stay safe, and give us a call if you need us, at 01603 503504.
Where to get help
0300 123 6600 www.talktofrank.com
111 www.nhs.uk
01603 503504 norwich.nightline.ac.uk