The manual represents a summary of learning from the Home Office Drugs Prevention Initiative over the last 5 years, including a review of wider research data. The manual focuses on the prevention principles and crucial messages believed to be helpful to Drug Action Teams as they address their action plans. Practical suggestions based on existing drug prevention projects supplement the guidelines. The manual notes that strategies for drug prevention efforts should rest on a range of consistent, integrated, and comprehensive approaches appropriate to local needs and that primary prevention programs should target alcohol, tobacco, and solvents, as well as illicit drugs. In addition, youth want drug information delivered through credible sources, including peers, youth services, and media. Furthermore, parents have significant needs in relation to parenting skills; drug education; and information, confidence, and coping skills. Moreover, communities can address drugs effectively in the context of broader community development and regeneration programs. Figure and appended map; names, addresses, and telephone numbers of home office local drug prevention teams; and 48 references