Editorial: Grandmothers to be commended for tackling drug problem

It takes courage to speak out against something.

People don't always take comments on their lifestyle or behaviour kindly - even if they are said with best intentions.

And sometimes it's just too easy to turn a blind eye.

A group of grandmothers recently started chatting about the odd behaviour by some of their mokopuna who were using methamphetamine or P.

Once they opened up they realised the problem was prevalent in the community.

Previously it was just one of those things that was swept under the carpet - out of sight, out of mind.

They want to support families, especially the elderly, who are dealing with the fallout of whanau members using the drug. So they've instigated Nannies against P.

A hui was held last Saturday with the help of Health Hawke's Bay chairman and Hastings District councillor Bayden Barber, where about 80 families were represented.

Those who went said it was an emotional day where people shared stories of the people they loved hooked on the drug.

Drug detection specialist Bo Fox told the meeting that Hawke's Bay was second only to Auckland for manufacturing methamphetamine.

Now that's a scary fact.

Support services work hard to help those affected by the drug and trying to break the addiction. Their work is so much more effective if supported by friends and family.

The nannies are going to establish what support services exist and how much of that support is available to families feeling the effects of drug abuse.

These women aren't putting the problem in the "too hard basket" - they're tackling it head on.

If anyone wants to join the movement they can phone the Nga Kairauhii receptionist on 021 1621533.