Justice minister calls for action on drug deaths
The Scottish deputy justice minister has called for action to tackle the high rate of drug-related deaths in Scotland – which could include a more ‘sensitive approach’ to dealing with drug overdoses.
Hugh Henry, speaking on the launch of a new report into drug-related deaths, said the preservation of life takes precedence, even if it means not sending out the police into drug overdose scenes.
The report published today, the National Investigation into Drug Related Deaths, was commissioned by Mr Henry following the publication of figures showing a record 382 drug-related deaths in Scotland in 2002.
Annual figures due later this month from the General Register Office for Scotland are expected to confirm that this number has risen again.
Mr Henry acknowledged there was a body of public opinion that “doesn’t care for the plight of drug addicts”, but he insisted the Scottish Executive had a duty “to help save lives” and “provide pathways” into effective treatment.
Published alongside the report were recommendations from the Scottish advisory committee on drug misuse (SACDM), which suggested Scotland’s high rate of drug-related deaths could be reduced if more measures were taken at the time of an overdose.
“The image that many people have of the addict who has taken their fatal fix is someone dying alone, crouched in a corner or a bed, and being found by friends or family when it is too late,” Mr Henry told a conference on the issue.
But the truth was there was often someone around “who – if they make the right call or follow the right steps – can help save a life”, he continued.
Mr Henry even suggested the ‘Manchester Protocol’ could be introduced north of the border. This would mean ambulance staff would not call police to the scene of an overdose unless there is a death, where a child may be at risk or where there is a threat of violence to paramedics.
The report found that some people were worried they may get in trouble with the police if the emergency services were called to an overdose scene, and that in 18 per cent of cases an ambulance was not called because of this fear.
“People do come back from the brink. People have taken a second chance. It is our responsibility to do whatever we can to prevent lives being lost and opportunities wasted. It is the responsibility of us all to work towards a safer, stronger Scotland,” Mr Henry said.
Ministers will publish an action plan based on the SACDM recommendations later this year.
The Scottish Executive is currently funding a first aid project to train drug users, their families and friends in first aid techniques and also raise awareness of the key issues related to overdose.
