Drug treatment standards missed across the country

In May 2021, the Scottish Government set a series of 10 Medical Assisted Treatment (MAT) standards for Alcohol and Drug Partnerships (ADPs) to meet. These set standards for access to medication, such as opioids, and to psychological and social support for those experiencing problems with drug use.  

On 23rd June 2022, then drugs minister Angela Constance told Parliament that, “all of these standards are crucially important.” She also indicated that they are “not standards that should be considered as ‘nice to have.’ My view is unequivocal- they must be delivered.”  

The figures, published by Public Health Scotland, reveal that:  

• By April 2023, all ADPs were expected to have achieved MAT standards 1-5, but 20 out of 29 are still falling short.  
• By April 2023, all ADPs were expected to have implemented lifesaving same-day access to treatment (MAT Standard 1), but 11 out of 29 are still falling short.
• By April 2023, all ADPs were expected to have achieved evidence of partial implementation of standards 6-10, which cover requirements such as independent advocacy, trauma-informed care, mental health care and support for housing and welfare, but 7 out of 29 are still falling short.  

Mr Cole-Hamilton said:  

"Ever since Nicola Sturgeon slashed budgets and services, this SNP government has presided over a public health disaster and drug deaths that are now many times worse than anywhere else in Europe.

“These figures show that it is still falling short on so many of the measures of good care, including all-important same day access to treatment. It is clear that services and staff need much more support.

“To turn a corner in this crisis we need radical action, which is why my party also wants to see the immediate introduction of specialist drugs commissions, safe consumption rooms across the country and the decriminalisation of drug misuse so that people receive treatment instead of prison time.

"It's time to stop people dying."