A hard-hitting TV advert showing the harmful effects of drugs has been produced by NHS East Lancashire.

It features a woman slumped on the floor in a drug-fuelled stupor, and a couple posing for a photograph, whilst the woman is blissfully unaware that her partner is under the influence of drugs.

John Robinson, Drugs Project Manager for NHS East Lancashire, commented: “We wanted to reach those people who were already using drugs, but were considering going clean.

"The advert poses questions which reflect some of the recurring thoughts or concerns that might motivate someone to seek help for a drug problem.

"These questions include: ‘Are drugs beginning to take a priority in my life? Are drugs always in my thoughts? Are people who care for me concerned?’ "The conclusion is that if the answer is ‘yes’, then it’s time to stop.”

The advert is currently being screened by The Life Channel, a specialist channel which promotes health and well-being messages to GP surgeries throughout East Lancashire.

  • For confidential help and advice, contact the Substance Misuse Service: Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale: 01282 657270. Hyndburn and Ribble Valley: 01254 226200.