The Association of Directors of Social Work has contributed significantly to policy debates over many years and its perspective on drugs and their impact on families is to be respected. I know particularly from my constituents' experience the positive impact effective social work practice can deliver. However, I'm not terribly clear on the precise point Bernadette Docherty, current president, was attempting to make (Letters, July 27), apart from a partisan endorsement of SNP policy, a rather surprising departure for her organisation.

The Association of Directors of Social Work has contributed significantly to policy debates over many years and its perspective on drugs and their impact on families is to be respected. I know particularly from my constituents' experience the positive impact effective social work practice can deliver. However, I'm not terribly clear on the precise point Bernadette Docherty, current president, was attempting to make (Letters, July 27), apart from a partisan endorsement of SNP policy, a rather surprising departure for her organisation.

I think it is fair to say there has been considerable cross-party support in recent years for improving the range and quality of services for drug users and their families. ADSW will be aware of the increases in expenditure and improvements in service development that have taken place during the years of a Labour-led executive.

Labour has recognised the impact of drugs on the community and the financial exploitation implicit in the whole business. Labour policy comprises three strands: tough enforcement to tackle drug-dealing, developing education and prevention services, and investment in treatment and care. Nevertheless, we recognise the challenges that remain.

The choice is not between receiving children into care or the status quo. Scotland needs to be aware of the scale of drug use and the devastating impact it can have. I hope ADSW will contribute to the coming debate and respond to the varying political contributions objectively and fairly.

Margaret Curran MSP, The Scottish Parliament.