Drug death figures are ‘intolerable’

DRUG deaths in Dumfries and Galloway shot up to 24 last year, double the number of 2023.

The National Records of Scotland this week revealed the grim tally and confirmed it was an increase of 100 per cent on the previous year, when 12 people died in drug related circumstances.

Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson described the news as “devastating” and said: “It is both heartbreaking and intolerable that so many lives continue to be lost.

“What we have to remember first and foremost is that many families are being left bereft as a result of Scotland having the highest drugs death rate in Europe.

“Every human life lost is one too many and it’s shameful this situation continues to spiral out of control under the SNP’s watch.”

He accused SNP ministers of repeatedly taking their eye off the ball with “no coherent and creditable strategy” for tackling the national crisis.

Mr Carson added: “Ministers have simply pinned all their hopes on drugs consumption rooms being the solution but clearly this is not the answer.

“Instead of state-sponsored drug-taking, the focus should be on treatment and rehab.

“The First Minister must stop the dithering and finally back the Scottish Conservatives’ Right to Recovery Bill, which will guarantee every Scot the right to receive potentially life-saving treatment.”

Meanwhile, the WithYou drug and alcohol support service is encouraging residents to ask for help if they need it.

Director Louise Stewart said: “My thoughts are with all those who have lost a loved one.

“I want to reassure people who are worried about their drug use, or that of a loved one, that support is available in Dumfries and Galloway and recovery is possible. Please do not hesitate to get in touch - we are WithYou.”

They have services in Dumfries and Stranraer and work across the region, offering free and confidential support, without judgement, to adults facing challenges with drugs and alcohol.

They can be found at 79 Buccleuch Street, Dumfries, call 0800 035 0793; or 32 Charlotte Street, Stranraer, call 01776 705907.

Support workers can also travel to meet people in the best place for them and they run a free, confidential webchat via wearewithyou.org.uk.