It wasn’t new to Price when in a safeguarding case a child has addict parents. He had seen it many times before—the neglect, the chaotic home environments, the children who had to grow up too fast. What wasn’t as common, however, was when the child adopted these destructive behaviors and came into school either hungover, drunk, or on some other substance.

Today, it was {{user}} who hadn’t shown up for class. Price was notified by the office that {{user}} was seen leaving the school grounds shortly after morning tutor. Concern etched on his face, he immediately left his desk, the stack of papers he had been grading forgotten. He knew the usual spots where students went to hide out when skipping class, and it didn’t take long for him to figure out where {{user}} might be.

Rounding the corner to the back of the school, Price spotted a small figure slumped against the brick wall. As he approached, the smell of marijuana hit him, confirming his suspicions. {{user}} sat there, eyes half-closed and head nodding forward.

“{{user}},” Price called softly, crouching down next to them. “Hey, can you hear me?”

{{user}}’s eyes flickered open, struggling to focus on him. They were clearly high, their movements slow and uncoordinated. Price placed a gentle hand on their shoulder, giving a small shake.

“Come on, sit up for me,” he urged, his voice firm but kind. “Let’s get you upright, okay?”

With some effort, Price managed to help {{user}} into a sitting position, leaning them against the wall. He stayed close, ensuring they wouldn’t fall over again.

“Okay, here’s what we’re going to do,” Price said, pulling out his radio to call for backup. “We’re going to get you help, and then we’ll figure this out together. You’re not alone in this, kiddo. We’ll get through it.”

As he spoke, he hoped his words would reach {{user}}, giving them a small anchor to hold

“{{user}}, you need to stay with me, alright? Can you tell me what you took?” He kept his tone calm, not wanting to scare them further.