07 May 2024
07 May 2024
The Scottish Drug Deaths Taskforce was established by the Scottish Government to tackle one of the nation’s most urgent public health emergencies: drug-related deaths. Bringing together evidence, lived experience, and a bold vision for reform, the Taskforce aimed to drive national change, reduce harm, and save lives. As part of this effort, WithYou was one of several partners funded to explore and deliver innovative approaches across Scotland.
The Taskforce brought together a diverse group of experts, including representatives from government, health services, justice sectors, and those with lived experience of drug use. This collaboration ensured recommendations were grounded in practical insight and wide-ranging expertise, enabling rapid and informed decision-making.
Over three years, the Taskforce focused on three key areas:
Emergency Response: Enhancing overdose preparedness and intervention across emergency services, families, and communities.
Reducing Risk: Expanding access to a range of effective treatments and support for those at high risk.
Reducing Vulnerability: Addressing social and economic factors that increase drug-related harm.
Scotland’s drug crisis is shaped by complex factors including:
High-risk drug use patterns: The average number of drugs found in toxicology reports has risen, with combinations of opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and other substances increasing the risk of fatal overdoses.
A vulnerable cohort: Many people affected began using drugs during the 1980s post-industrial decline and now face multiple disadvantages including poor physical and mental health, unemployment, unstable housing, and justice system involvement.
Social deprivation: Drug-related harm is concentrated in areas with acute deprivation, trauma, and inequality, which exacerbate risks and challenges.
Stigma as a barrier: People who use drugs often face stigma that blocks access to healthcare and support, with their complex health and social needs frequently overlooked.
Addiction is not a crime and you cannot punish people out of addiction. That has been the approach for years and it hasn’t worked.
David Strang, Taskforce Chair
In July 2022, the Taskforce published its final report, Changing Lives, outlining a comprehensive strategy for cultural and systemic change. The report offers evidence-based recommendations designed to improve health outcomes and save lives across Scotland.
Download the full Changing Lives report below.