Drug-Related Deaths in Scotland 2020 Report

Today the annual Drug-Related Deaths in Scotland Report was published and showed that the total number of drug deaths in 2020 was 1,339 (an increase of 75 from previous year).

Drug related deaths are increasing nationally and this trend is reflected in the five year average figures for the Scottish Borders. In 2016 to 2020 the annual average is 16 compared with 9 in 2011 to 2015.

Every death is a tragedy and impacts on families and friends.  In 2020 there were 15 drug related deaths reviewed by the Drug Related Death Group compared with 16 in 2019.

We are working hard with partners from a wide range of agencies to deliver actions which could help prevent drug related deaths. This work includes:

• Highlighting risk factors for drug related deaths in training events coordinated by the Alcohol & Drugs Partnership (ADP).
• Ensuring fact access to treatment.  In 2020-21, 99% of people who were referred to drug treatment services started treatment within three weeks. 
• In Quarter 4 2020-21, 80% of people started Opiate Substitute Treatment (OST) on the same day as initial assessment and 100% started OST between 1-7 calendar days.
• Increased the proportion of the population of people with drug problems in treatment to 83% treatment (424 in treatment of 510 estimated prevalence), which is an increase from 75% in previous year.
• We are piloting a pathway to ensure help and support is offered to people who have experienced a non-fatal overdose.
• Extending provision of take home naloxone* through training in overdose prevention and naloxone for staff in non-drug treatment services and community pharmacies.
• Reviewing the circumstances of each drug related death to identify learning and promote best practice.
• Stigma can be a barrier to people seeking support and help, so it is important that we as a community are aware that the reasons for problem drug use which can be complex and include both personal and social circumstances. People who have experienced adverse childhood experiences including physical and sexual abuse, neglect, bereavement and abandonment as well as adult trauma such as imprisonment and homelessness are all personal drivers for problem drug use. In addition social circumstances that play a role in problem drug use include poverty and inequality. Once someone experiences a drug problem they have more limited means to escaping poverty and changes of gaining paid employment are affected (even in recovery). 

Dr Tim Patterson, Director of Public Health, said: “This report is a powerful reminder that people in our communities are dying unnecessarily early due to drug-related illnesses and deaths. These figures are people – they are our sons, daughters, friends and neighbours. The Borders has a tremendous community spirit, so I would like to draw on that and ask you to help us tackle the stigma which can often surround drug use.

“We need a whole community approach with everyone putting an end to unhelpful notions of stereotypes because we know that stigma and prejudice can put off some people who use drugs from seeking support. One way you can help is by recognising that language matters – stigmatising language reinforces negative stereotypes while person-centred language focuses on the person, not their substance use. Examples of this and more information is available on the Alcohol & Drugs Partnership page on our website.

“Most importantly, if you think you need support please get in touch with NHS Borders Addiction Service or We Are With You. If you are concerned about a loved one please get in touch with We Are With You or the national Scottish Families Affected by Drugs & Alcohol.”

*Take home Naloxone is a medication to temporarily reverse the effects of an opiate overdose and is widely available to people at risk and family member. Since the programme started in 2011, 439 first supplies of take home Naloxone have been provided by March 2021 (86% of our estimated population of drug users) and 1602 total supplies. In 2020-21 we supplied 49 first time kits against a target of 28 and 153 resupplies were made. This year we offered Take Home Naloxone kits to all community pharmacies for supply and also for use in emergency situations. 

Naloxone is also available from We Are With You (WAWY), Borders Addictions Service, Injecting Equipment Providers in Community Pharmacies and the Emergency Department within Borders General Hospital. When receiving a Naloxone supply all individuals are given training on overdose risks and how to safely administer this medication.

Support for individuals and families

There are three direct drug and alcohol services that work across the Scottish Borders.  All agencies accept self-referrals or direct referrals from agencies.

• We Are With You, 01896 757843: Support to anyone 16yrs and over concerned about their own drug or alcohol use or someone else’s.
• NHS Borders Addictions Service, 01896 664430: Support to anyone 16yrs and over with drug/alcohol dependency and physical/mental health needs
• Chimes, Action for Children, 01896 750173:
  • Support to children and young people affected by parental alcohol and/or drug use
  • Parents and expectant parents experiencing problematic alcohol / drug use which is significantly impacting on their child(ren) / unborn baby 

Scottish Families Affected by Drugs & Alcohol (SFAD) provides support to family members and friends who have been affected by the substance use of a relative or loved one. This includes a Bereavement Support Service for family members who have lost a loved one where drugs may have been a reason for their death, confidential helpline and Telehealth service. 

Recovery People with problematic alcohol and drug use can and do recover and go on to lead healthy and full lives. A number of groups meet across the Scottish Borders including music and creative writing groups. Information available from We Are With You.