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Knowing the complexities, challenges and skills required to lobby gov - well done to groups and advocates like @collect_voice who have worked hard to raise issue of drug treatment funding in the past 4 years.
Its tough putting treatment on the agenda esp in Tory gov
Knowing the complexities, challenges and skills required to lobby gov - well done to groups and advocates like @collect_voice who have worked hard to raise issue of drug treatment funding in the past 4 years.
Its tough putting treatment on the agenda esp in Tory gov
First we had a snap election and the Brexit chaos, now Covid. This is not to justify what is clearly a lacking commitment from gov in terms of funding, more a recognition of the challenges of lobbying.
The treatment sector has also taken strides forward in the past 4 years
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The treatment sector has also taken strides forward in the past 4 years
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When I first started in drug treatment the sector had a clear CJS focus and the “big” charities rarely spoke publicly with the media or entered the lobbying environment.
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Now you regularly see orgs like @WeAreWithYou @changegrowlive @collect_voice @humankind championing the needs of vulnerable groups and being brave.
Am sure there is lots to be done and plans for more but hats off to the folks behind the scenes pushing and leading
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Am sure there is lots to be done and plans for more but hats off to the folks behind the scenes pushing and leading
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It is easy to be combative, negative, attack, criticise and please your echo chamber when it comes to issues like this.
But those who have success are the campaigners, advocates and leaders who are constructive, engaging and think beyond their bubble.
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But those who have success are the campaigners, advocates and leaders who are constructive, engaging and think beyond their bubble.
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Great example of this are people like @GBMC73 who is tirelessly raising awareness, being positive and creating fun content.
Or @foundationdsm who have done an incredible job working with the media to raise key issues of drug education and provision.
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Or @foundationdsm who have done an incredible job working with the media to raise key issues of drug education and provision.
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Being bold, positive and honest about drug policy is important. Again, am sure £80 million falls short but the sector has come a long way and credit to those involved 
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