Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership encourages public to enjoy this weekend's Capers in Cannich festival safely and follow the coronavirus guidance and avoid using illegal drugs
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People attending the first music festival to be held in the Highlands since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic are being encouraged to enjoy the occasion safely.
The Capers in Cannich festival takes place from today until Monday and the Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership (HADP) is making the plea.
Deborah Stewart, HADP co-ordinator, said: “We know that people will be excited to be able to enjoy live music with their families and friends after what has been a challenging year for everyone.
“The Highland Alcohol and Drugs Partnership want those who attend to have a wonderful time and to ensure they follow all of the Covid-19 guidance during the festival.
“It is also extremely important that people enjoy alcohol sensibly over the weekend. This is a family festival and there will be young children and families in attendance. We would encourage everyone to act responsibly, be positive role models and enjoy the live entertainment.
“For those who are unable to avoid using illegal drugs, we would urge them to consider that any tolerance they feel they may have could be significantly reduced due to the fewer opportunities to attend music festivals and parties over the course of the pandemic.
“We know that there are higher doses of certain drugs in circulation and that substances can be mis-sold as something they are not. We encourage people to look out for their family and friends.
“There will be first aid and welfare provision across the site and we urge anyone who is concerned about drug use or overdose to seek help as soon as possible. In addition, people who use drugs, as well as their families and friends, might be interested in downloading the new Highland Overdose Prevention and Engagement (HOPE) app that contains lots of information and advice.
“We would also remind people to consider that this could be the first time they have been in a crowd of people since the beginning of the pandemic. We encourage people to be mindful that this could cause anxiety and to follow social distancing guidance that will still be in place throughout the festival.”
Further information about the festival is available here.
The HOPE app is available to download at the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
