3.9 % of South Africa's population is reported to abuse substances, while 0.6% is said to be dependent on them (P Seale, South Africa's ever-increasing drug challenge). That translates to 2.2 million people abusing substances and 345 000 people dependent on substances. 

For many, who have never interacted with an addict, these are just vague numbers until the problem comes to your doorstep. As a person affected by drug abuse, these numbers have names and generally painful stories behind them. 

Having lived with someone who abuses substances for the past three years and my many interactions with the Departments of Justice and Social Development, the SAPS, SANCA and rehabs as a result; this petition seeks to encourage the above-mentioned institutions to collaborate in amending laws related to drug abuse and dependence to respond to our current social landscape.  

This petition will be a first critical step to changing our laws and getting urgent help to drug abusers whose substances use adversely affects the welfare and wellbeing of those they live with them.