In March 2005, through competitive tendering we were successful in being awarded our very first contract in London – the Tower Hamlets Young People’s Substance Misuse Service.

Tower Hamlets itself has a rapidly growing population, which according to the Office for National Statistics, expanded by over 35,000 people during the census periods 1991-2001. The total population is now in excess of 196,000 people and is characterised by its relative youthfulness, ethnic diversity and its starkly contrasting levels of socio-economic deprivation and prosperity.

The Borough has one of the youngest populations in the country: 28.4% of Tower Hamlet’s residents are aged 19 years or younger and 76% of the school age population is from a minority ethnic group. Whilst this statistical fact is a cause for celebration, when coupled with high levels of economic deprivation a growing youth population presents many challenges in regard to tackling substance use issues within the Borough. Indeed many of the risk factors related to problematic substance use are highly evident within Tower Hamlets, they cross all ethnic groups, and are currently beginning to be addressed through the formation of strong, and effective local partnerships, many of which include and involve the young people of the Borough.

Essentially, Lifeline aims for the young person’s service provision within the Borough to not only be responsive to the needs of young people but also to engage young people actively in design and development. We endeavour to develop the service in a manner that promotes community cohesion, and addresses barriers that are rooted in age, disability, gender, sexual orientation and ethnicity.

We feel that this is just the beginning of new strategic developments, ideas and directives in moving to London and feel excited and inspired by the challenge in introducing Lifeline to London’s commissioners, providers and communities.

Tower Hamlets was historically without a dedicated Young People’s Service and what existed was disparate throughout the Borough either delivered through adult services or individual workers attached to services. The London Borough of Tower Hamlets Drug Action Team undertook a huge task of reconfiguring services and pooled together a budget and tender which appealed to Lifeline’s philosophy and approach. The DAT have encouraged creativity and flexibility and a whole range of exciting programmes have been planned which include; diversionary activities, peer education, community Interactors, mentoring and family work.

We have been fortunate to have recruited a team of talented workers who are ready and keen for the challenge facing young person’s services in such a rich and diverse borough and represent the multiplicity of London in skills, knowledge and make-up and we look forward to developing and extending the services we have established.

Noreen Sheikh-Latif