True Costs

The UK is one of the biggest consumers of cocaine in Europe.

The true costs of cocaine use are significant and far-reaching, from child exploitation and other criminality to health and environmental. We understand that most people don’t see the awful things we see so it’s our duty to shine a light on these costs.

Not everyone who takes cocaine knows the reality of how it is produced and supplied. We are providing the facts so you can make informed choices for yourself.

Is there a typical cocaine user?

There is no typical user of cocaine; users can include manual workers as well as young couples, secure families and older couples in the suburbs. However, not everyone is taking cocaine; 93% of adults, surveyed by the Home Office thought it was never acceptable to take cocaine.

What’s the scale of cocaine use in the Thames Valley?

There are currently a number of active organised crime groups involved in the supply of cocaine in Thames Valley. This means there is a demand for the drug which must be supplied via a network of organised crime groups. In recent years, awareness of county drugs lines has grown due to media interest. This type of organised crime is a breeding ground for wider criminality, including the exploitation of children.

What is child exploitation?

What are the signs of child exploitation?