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With You responds to the National Records of Scotland report on drug-related deaths

August 2023

Today (Tuesday, 22 August), the National Records of Scotland has published its annual report on drug-related deaths. The report finds that:

  • In 2022 there were 1,051 deaths due to drug misuse in Scotland
  • This is 279 deaths fewer than in 2021 and the lowest number of drug misuse deaths since 2017, although the figure is still more than three times higher than it was in 2000
  • Opiates/opioids were implicated in 82% of all deaths in 2022
  • In 79% of all drug-related deaths in 2022, more than one drug was implicated in the death
  • People living in the most deprived areas of Scotland were almost 16 times as likely to die from drug misuse than in the least deprived areas

Belinda Phipps, Chief Executive at With You, says: “The findings of today’s report must be both painful and deeply frustrating for everyone who has lost a loved one to drugs. It is unacceptable that, after so many years, Scotland still has the highest number of drug-related deaths in Western Europe.

“The report shows that drug-related deaths fell by 21% compared to the previous year. We are making progress - but it isn’t happening on a large enough scale or with enough urgency.

“The majority of drug-related deaths in Scotland are linked to opiates and benzodiazepines, as well as the emergence of synthetic substances. We know that people are using these drugs because of underlying trauma and mental health issues; they are looking for a way to numb painful feelings.

“As a society, we have to become more empathetic and remove the stigma attached to drug use so that vulnerable people feel able to ask for help. And when people do ask for help, we need to ensure it is immediately and easily available.

“Last month the Scottish Government called for drug testing and decriminalisation through its ambitious drugs law reform proposal. While this forward-thinking approach is to be applauded, we need to move faster and commit long-term resources to improving those areas already within our control, such as reducing waiting times and improving the quality of services.

“In communities across the length and breadth of the country, charities like With You are helping people to reduce their drug use. The Scottish Government and NHS Scotland must continue to work in unity with the third sector so that, together, we can grow these services and reach more people.

“With the right support, all 1,051 of the people who died through drug use in 2022 could still be alive today. The reasons behind this public health crisis are deep-rooted and complex, but drug-related deaths are not inevitable in Scotland - and we must not stand back and accept them.”