DPAS was established in April 1999 with a mandate to promote effective drug prevention and to support Drug Action Teams (DATs) in their role of delivering the aims of the Government's national antidrug strategy. Since details regarding how DPAS will deliver its full mandate are still being developed, this booklet only addresses current DPAS operations, which involve drug prevention. Thus far the DPAS has focused on helping youth resist drug use and protect communities from drug-related antisocial and criminal behavior. The DPAS serves the DATs by providing evidence regarding effective drug preventions strategies and ensuring that DAT prevention programs are as effective as possible. DPAS conducted an assessment of the drug prevention activity of every DAT in England, so as to identify good practice, reveal gaps in current programs and services, and identify areas for future development. As a result of the assessment, the following priority areas were identified for action: criminal justice interventions, vulnerable groups, community involvement, drug education, DAT organization, and equal opportunities. The latter priority aims to ensure that people from all backgrounds have access to appropriate programs and services. Information on contact persons is provided