29 June 2022

Our Alcohol & Drugs Partnership in the Borders is a top performer in a report on national standards of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for individuals who experience problems with their drug use. 

MAT refers to the use of medication, such as opioids, together with psychological and social support, in the treatment and care of individuals who experience problems with their drug use. 

This latest report, which details the implementation of MAT standards 1 to 5, shows that our Alcohol & Drugs Partnership (ADP) is the only one to successfully implement all of these new standards. 

Dr Tim Patterson, Director of Public Health and Chair of the Borders Alcohol & Drugs Partnership said: “Our ADP is showcased in the report as a case study due to our success in overcoming rural challenges to offer rapid access to MAT through multiple and flexible models of care. 

“We are achieving this by delivering services through the Borders Addiction Service (BAS), We Are With You (WAWY) and the joint BAS/WAWY Engagement Support Team. Interventions are available throughout the Borders at drop-in clinics and in people’s own homes where appropriate.” 

One person who received support through the Engagement Support Team provided feedback, saying: “I really appreciate what your team has done for me, it's been the best treatment I've had in 10 years”.

 

Further Information

The Drug Deaths Taskforce published standards of care for medication assisted treatment in May 2021 with the aim to improve access, choice and care for people affected by problematic substance use across Scotland. 

The 1-5 standards are:

1. All people accessing services have the option to start MAT from the same day of presentation.

2. All people are supported to make an informed choice on what medication to use for MAT, and the appropriate dose.

3. All people at high risk of drug-related harm are proactively identified and offered support to commence or continue MAT.

4. All people are offered evidence-based harm reduction at the point of MAT delivery.

5. All people will receive support to remain in treatment for as long as requested. 

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 and Serendipity Recovery Community Network and on our local Alcohol & Drugs Partnership webpage. 

The three direct drug and alcohol services that work across the Scottish Borders, who accept self-referrals or direct referrals from agencies, are:-

  • 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

Additionally, the 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.