Statement on drug deaths

Statement on drug deaths 

The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (the “College”) is calling on the UK and Scottish governments to work together to reduce drug deaths over the long term.

The latest National Records of Scotland data show that the number of drug deaths dropped to 279 in 2022; however the College points out that a one year downturn does not represent a trend and that there’s still more work to do.

Commenting, Professor Roy Robertson, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh and Professor of Addiction Medicine at the University of Edinburgh said:

The College is encouraged by the latest data, which indicate that drug deaths reduced by 279 in 2022. While this reduction is welcome, society should reflect that we are not talking about numbers – we are talking about lives. Drugs devastate the lives of people who use them, as well as the lives of family and friends. 
 
There is some excellent work going on in Scotland, including the introduction of the Medicated Assisted Treatment (MAT) Standards and the roll-out of naloxone across society. However, the reduction in drug deaths during 2022, welcome as that may be, is only part of the story. A one year downturn does not represent a trend, and it should be noted that there was an increase in the number of drug deaths in the last quarter of 2022.

Professor Angela Thomas, Member of Council at the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh added:

There’s much more left to do. The College has consistently called for a heroin-assisted treatment programme, as well as the introduction of safe consumption facilities, which we believe could help to reduce drug-related harms. But for these interventions to become a reality, the UK and Scottish governments must work together. This is currently not the case.

“Beyond any further medical interventions, the College wants to see greater investment in support services for people who use drugs, including access to mental health support, housing and cost-of-living help.