PARTNERS of a multi-agency initiative are urging people to report discarded needles in the North Wales area.

The Drug Litter Line was devised by North Wales Police and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), working in partnership with all six local authorities within the region to create a simple process - regardless of the location of the litter.

Luke Ogden, helplines manager in BCUHB, said: "The reporting process is also underpinned with literature advising the public what they should and can do if they find any litter and how they report it.

"Whilst North Wales is still a very safe place to live and visit, there are occasions when drugs litter is discarded and does need to be removed to prevent any harm.

"This is a multi-agency initiative which is designed to make the process easier and is available 24 hours, seven days a week."

The Leader has previously reported multiple incidents where drug related litter has been found, including children's playing fields.

Mr Ogden says the app allows the incidents to e reported easily so they can be cleared as soon as possible.

He added: "We are also working with the North Wales Harm Reduction service to ensure that they are made aware of any reports of drug related litter.

"This allows their teams to take a proactive approach to engage with individuals within the substance use community, with one of the aims being to prevent future drug litter problems.

"We have had nothing but positive feedback on the Drug Litter Line and are keen to keep promoting the vital service where we can."

Anyone who finds drug related litter can report it by calling the freephone number on 0808 808 2276 or online at

www.drugslitterline.org.uk

to complete a form.