A REVIEW into drug abuse in Wyre Forest has revealed there are estimated to be five main drug dealers operating in the district.

The Alcohol and Substance Misuse Panel was set up by Wyre Forest District Council’s community services scrutiny committee to address the problem of drug use.

Members considered evidence from a range of expert witnesses, including police data intelligence analysts and Worcestershire Substance Misuse Action Team (SMAT).

The panel found that the highest number of offences in the district involved the use of the class B drug, cannabis.

In addition, they discovered it was difficult for police to prosecute offenders for the supply of drugs, as most would claim it was for their own use.

According to their report, about 2,500 people in Worcestershire are classed as “problematic drug users”, meaning they use opiants or crack cocaine.

It notes that a team based in Kidderminster provides a range of services for drug users, including needle exchanges and GP partnership working.

It reveals that over the past five years, the number of drug users accessing treatment in Worcestershire has increased and the level of crime associated with drug abuse has fallen.

The panel found that about 1,800 people were seen by SMAT for drug abuse, some of whom successfully came off drugs.

Members were advised Wolverley High School had developed an “excellent” programme for educating students on drug and alcohol misuse as part of its Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) lessons.

Sarah Sprung, committee officer, said they would be recommending: “The competing demands on police time with regard to substance misuse be recognised.

“Community leaders will identify community needs in relation to dealing and drug supply and will encourage policy to deal with local issues.”

The committee meets on Wednesday, at Duke House, Clensmore Street, Kidderminster at 6pm.