Management Information Sheet
Young people in Norfolk using illicit Diazepam
The Matthew Project service, Unity, which is the commissioned service in Norfolk for young people who misuse or are at risk of misusing substances, has recently been receiving an increasing number of referrals regarding young people (aged between 14-19 years) using illicit Diazepam. Diazepam is a prescription drug from the Benzodiazepine group. This group of drugs can used to treat anxiety, sleep and muscle spasm. They are a sedative and can result in young people being admitted to hospital due to reduced respiratory function/heart rate.
If a young person presents in school as drowsy, disinhibited, confused, or having loss of balance or seizures our advice would be to encourage the young person to seek medical attention. If these symptoms are severe then urgent medical attention should be sought following the school’s normal first aid and medical emergencies procedures.
If you require any additional information or would like to refer a young person to Unity, please call 01603 216420.
More information about the services provided by Unity can be found at: www.matthewproject.org/unity/
Norfolk’ Drug and Alcohol Advice for schools can be found in the attachments above.