Our member LEEDO (Local Education and Economic Development) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is working closely with children living on the streets and focuses on activities and methods to avoid the development of a substance use disorder as they are vulnerable. Besides prevention, they also focus on treatment. They are looking for potential partners to collaborate with to be able to support as many children as possible.

Below, they elaborate on the impact drugs can have on children and which methods are used to prevent use.

Which factors contribute to the development of Substance Use Disorder among street children?

The issue of street children getting addicted to drugs is a complex and multifaceted problem. There are several factors that contribute to this unfortunate situation:

1. Poverty and Homelessness
2. Escape from Reality
3. Peer Influence
4. Traumatic Experience
5. Lack of Education and Awareness
6. Easy Accessibility of Drugs
7. Exploitation by Criminal Networks

Which drugs have led to SUD?

The types of drugs to which street children may become addicted can vary depending on factors such as their geographic location, availability of substances, and peer influence. Commonly abused drugs among street children can include:

1. Glue and Solvents
2. Marijuana
3. Yaba
4. Heroin and Other Opioids
5. Phensedyl
6. Tramadol

How many street children are affected by SUD?

We are alarmed by the findings of a recent study by the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) that said that 56 percent of the street children in the country are addicted to different kinds of drugs, while 21 percent of them are being used as carriers of drugs. The reason for the situation has also been identified – 1) the easy availability of drugs – with 53 percent of the children surveyed saying they can buy drugs directly from the traffickers. The study also identified the districts where the number of vulnerable children is higher.

As per our direct experience, 80% to 90% of street children are subjected to a substance use disorder.

Which innovative prevention activities does LEEDO implement?

Preventing street children from falling into drug addiction requires innovative and comprehensive approaches that address the underlying causes of homelessness and vulnerability. Here are some ideas for innovative work to prevent street children from getting addicted to drugs:

1. Early Intervention Programs through an open-air school approach.  
2. Operate Mobile Schools for the prevention of drug
3. Intervention Outreach activities through street drama, Puppet Shows, debate, art exhibitions, Rallies, publications etc.
4. To take sustainable Livelihood Projects   
5. Advocacy and Policy Change
6. Family Strengthening Initiatives through life skills
7. Public Awareness Campaigns through SPORTS.
8. Arrange formal training for law enforcement agencies to take proper legal action against drug dealers. 

Why is the future of street-connected children with SUDs at risk?

The future of street children who face SUD is in even greater danger due to the combined impact of drug abuse and the challenges they already face as vulnerable individuals living on the streets. Here are some specific reasons why drug addiction poses significant risks to their future:

1. Health Consequences
2. Impaired Cognitive Functioning
3. High Risk of Overdose
4. Limited Access to Healthcare
5. Involvement in Criminal Activities
6. Negative Social Impact
7. Reduced Opportunities for Education and Employment
8. Exploitation and Abuse 9. Mental Health Challenges
10. Dependency and Relapse.
11. Unexpected death at an early age.

Appeal:

LEEDO may take the projects on drugs for prevention and save vulnerable lives from unexpected situations which is an obstruction for the lives of street children and girls living and working on the streets.

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