24/09/2026
Today we learned that 1,133 lives in Scotland were lost to drugs last year, up 11% year on year. As our chart shows, this isn't a one-off, it's part of a hugely concerning decade-long pattern. Sons, daughters, parents, friends, our thoughts are with every family who has lost someone.
Our National Harm Reduction Lead, Gareth Balmer, has written about why this keeps happening and what needs to change. It's not just about the drugs themselves. Poverty, trauma and a failing safety net all play their part, and people need real support to reach them at the right time, backed by long-term planning and investment.
Read Gareth's full piece in the comments.
If you're worried about your own drug or alcohol use, or someone else's, we're here. No judgement, just support.
