Database to tackle drug addiction in Swansea
A database with information about drug addicts and other substance abusers has been launched in Swansea.
Police, social services and other agencies say the system that allows them to share information for the first time will help cut crime.
They say they will be able to step in more quickly and effectively to prevent or manage addiction, saving lives.
The system, called Paris-Smat, links up agencies in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.
Swansea council cabinet member for social services Nick Tregoning said: "Experience tells us that having the right information at the right time can make all the difference in prevention, treatment and protection from harm.
"It can even help save lives.
"For the first time agencies in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend will be able to share information at the push of a button and work together more effectively than ever to protect families and children as well as tackle the problems people with an addiction are dealing with."
Sue Stone of the ABMU Health Board's community drug and alcohol team, said: "The main benefit of Paris-Smat is that if a client presents to a service in crisis all the information that is required to assist that client is there on the system."