Scottish Drug-Related Deaths Decrease in 2024, But Still Remain High Level
Drug deaths in Scotland saw a decrease in 2024, although they are still at a high level, as per a report published by the Scottish Government. New figures revealed that there were 833 suspected drug deaths recorded from January to September 2024, showing a 7% reduction from the previous total. In comparison, in 2023, 1,172 Scots lost their lives due to drug-related issues, which saw an increase of 121 deaths from the previous year.
The latest data, based on information from Police Scotland on suspected drug deaths, indicated that fatalities dropped to the lowest rate in two years from July to September 2024. During that quarter, 244 suspected drug deaths were recorded, marking a 9% decrease from April to June and a 19% drop from the same period in 2023. It was highlighted that this was the lowest number recorded in a single calendar quarter since the quarter ending September 2022. However, it was cautioned that the number of deaths can fluctuate quarter to quarter, and long-term trends should not be inferred from individual quarterly movements.
Of the 833 suspected drug deaths in the first nine months of 2024, 74% were men, with 616 male fatalities and 217 female deaths. Additionally, around 65% of those who passed away were aged between 35 and 54, aligning with previous quarters’ trends. The Greater Glasgow police division reported the highest number of suspected drug deaths at 186, followed by Lanarkshire at 102 and Edinburgh City at 70.
Health Secretary Neil Gray mentioned that the Scottish Government has allocated record levels of funding for alcohol and drug programs and that spending in this area was safeguarded in the 2025-26 budget. Expressing condolences to those who lost loved ones, Gray emphasized the importance of providing support to individuals experiencing harm from drug use. He highlighted the government’s £250 million national mission to combat drug misuse, which includes initiatives like funding the UK’s inaugural Safer Drug Consumption Facility pilot and expanding access to naloxone.
Moreover, Gray noted that the Scottish Government is committed to preserving funding for alcohol and drug programs, with £112 million allocated to local Alcohol and Drugs Partnerships for treatment and support services. Investments in residential rehabilitation will also continue, with over £10 million designated to enhance capacity and fund placements. The Corra Foundation will receive £13 million annually to support grassroots organizations and projects aimed at helping more than 33,000 people.
In summary, while Scotland has seen a decrease in suspected drug deaths in 2024, the figures remain at a concerning level. Efforts by the Scottish Government to address drug-related issues and provide support to those affected by substance misuse are crucial in tackling this ongoing public health challenge.