Headlines, PublicNet: 28 November, 2005
Police and anti-drugs campaigners have been warned against believing the stereotypical view of drug-dealing areas as being unpopular and socially-divided. Unique research carried out for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation shows drug dealers also thrive in neighbourhoods with a strong sense of community and, in some cases, operate as established ‘family’ businesses.A team from King’s College London conducted the largest British study to date of the relationship between illegal drug markets and communities. The research, published today, includes interviews with 68 dealers, 800 residents and more than 120 professionals from the police and other local agencies. The research focuses on four contrasting drug-dealing neighbourhoods in England. It finds widespread concern among local people who are particularly anxious about intimidation, violence and harm to the reputation of their area.
Read more on TACKLING DRUG DEALING ‘REQUIRES UNDERSTANDING OF COMMUNITIES…