600 suspected drug deaths in the first half of 2023

Responding to new figures published by the Scottish Government which show that 600 people died of a suspected drug death between January and June 2023, which is a 7% increase from the same period in 2022, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader and health spokesperson Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP said:    

“Behind each of these numbers is a life cut short and a family torn apart by grief. With drugs deaths that are still the very worst in Europe, the Scottish Government must now use every tool at its disposal to reduce harm and save lives.        

“I was pleased to read the Lord Advocate’s recommendation on safe drug consumption rooms, which my party has consistently argued are a key part of the solution alongside access to medical care and support.  

“The Scottish Government must now push ahead with a trial for consumption rooms swiftly and urgently. If that is successful, the government’s hand will be strengthened immeasurably in pressing ahead with similar proposals in areas like Dundee, where drug misuse has taken such a deadly and tragic toll.”