Exploring Young People's Involvement in Drug Markets in NI

This research project examines factors affecting the individual, social and structural environments which influence young people's participation in drug markets in NI. Recent research estimates tens of thousands of young people are involved in illegal drug distribution across the United Kingdom (UK). These young people are at risk of exploitation, victimisation, serious violence and problematic drug use. In Northern Ireland, the research on young people's involvement in low-level illegal drug distribution is limited. Drug distribution presents a significant problem in NI due to paramilitary control and involvement combined with the post-conflict, transitional nature of NI, yet limited research exists. In this context, the study aims to provide comprehensive and original insight into young people's participation in low-level drug markets and the impact of paramilitarism on this important issue. The study will apply a risk environment framework to understand environmental influences shaping young people's involvement in low level drug markets. This project will also consider the effectiveness of contemporary intervention strategies, in addition to how policy and practice can be improved to meet the needs of these young people.
The research uses a three-staged qualitative methodology: interviews with practitioners; observations of practitioners; and semi-structured interviews with young people previously or currently involved in low level drug distribution. The unique collaboration with St. Peters Immaculata Youth Centre will provide access to participants. Non-participant observations with this organisation will provide understanding of motivations for engaging in low-level drug distribution in NI and how interventions are targeting this issue. Interviews will provide deep understanding and knowledge of their experiences and how services do and should respond to this issue.
Research findings will provide original and insightful knowledge which will inform drug policy, practice and service provision for young people participating in low level drug distribution at a local, national and international level. Importantly, findings will also contribute towards theoretical understanding of the unique risk environment influences presented within post conflict societies and provide recommendations for future research.