Increase in drug deaths

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arrangements between a number of agencies.

“In Lanarkshire this work is undertaken by NHS Lanarkshire, North and South Lanarkshire councils, North and South Lanarkshire health and social care partnerships, Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service, Scottish Prison Service, Scottish Fire and Rescue, the third sector, the Crown Office and the Procurator Fiscal Service.

“This collaborative approach aims to prevent drug deaths through a combination of preventative work and working directly with those who have drug addictions with a focus on rehabilitation and recovery.

“Services provide interventions such as harm reduction, counselling, therapy, treatment for depression, treatment for mental health issues and community detoxification. Individuals are also able to access a range of services within their local community to support their recovery, which includes community-based programmes, family and peer support, as well as links to a number of housing, training and employment programmes.”

Dr Brodie continued: “Lanarkshire, like the rest of Scotland and indeed the UK, has seen an increase in the number of drug-related deaths over the past period. The majority are amongst older age groups (35 and over), most of whom have been drug users for several years which has had an impact on their overall physical health.

“In 2016 over 80 per cent of those who died also had an underlying health issue implicated in their cause of death.

“Polydrug use (the use of more than one substance) also continues to be an issue within Lanarkshire, with many deaths having two or more drugs implicated in the cause.

“Another factor is that many drugs sold – particularly illicit tablets – may not be what the buyer expects and may have different or stronger effects, putting people at a much higher risk than they were before.

“From the best available evidence, we know that engaging with services offers better protection against overdose.

“We also remain committed to the National Naloxone Programme which provides naloxone and overdose awareness training to individuals at risk of overdose.”

For more information on local services and support available in South Lanarkshire call 01698 453730 or e-mail lanarkshireadp@ lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk