“The government are planning to add 24 additional anabolic steroids and two growth promoters to the list of class C drugs to prevent abuse. These drugs are already banned by sporting authorities but as yet are not illegal. In total, 54 anabolic steroids and five growth hormones have been controlled as class C drugs since 1996.
- Tackling Drugs E-Bulletin August 2008

This year Lifeline’s Corporate Harm Minimisation group has been supported by the work of a regional group looking at the growth in steroid use.

The North East group met late 2007 as a consultation and working group. The group consisted of people with experience, staff and volunteers on the front line. Working with local partners, Lifeline Publications and other advisers, the group researched and trailed possibilities for reaching new audiences.

The impact sought from the material was to spread messages widely and rapidly in the local area. After some investigation it was agreed that a pocket Flashcard would be easiest to distribute, and potentially easier to adopt for those not actively seeking advice. Lifeline is holding an internal Harm Minimisation Conference in December 2008.