Six people die after taking heroin in Bristol
Public health officials in Bristol have issued the warning as there's a 'serious threat to life'
Last updated 6th Jul 2023
Public health leaders in Bristol have issued an urgent safety warning after a spike in health incidents related to heroin.
Latest stats show six people have died and many more have been rushed into emergency care because of what's believed to be a dangerous batch of the drug in circulation.
The local authority have made the alert because they say there's a 'serious threat to life'.
Avon and Somerset Police have already made a number of arrests, and enquiries into the source of the substances are currently underway.
All partners are currently working to support efforts to disrupt the spread of the dangerous substances.
Christina Gray, Director for Public Health and Communities said: “Any death is a tragedy. As a city we put people’s safety, health, and wellbeing at the forefront of our approach to drugs. This is an unusually high level of health-related incidents, so it is important that people are made aware and take the appropriate actions needed to help protect themselves from harm whenever possible.
"Our city offers robust substance use services, and we remain committed to collaborating with our partners to ensure that those in need receive the necessary assistance and support.”
Lydia Plant, Treatment Team Service Manager and acting EEI Service Manager at Bristol Drugs Project (BDP) said: "Over the last ten days, countless people's lives have been saved by Naloxone, a medicine that reverses opiate overdoses. BDP can issue Naloxone to anyone that needs it - you may be able to save someone's life with it.
"Whether you use heroin, live with someone who does or might come across someone overdosing in your community or as part of your job, please visit our website or drop in to BDP to pick some up."
Bristol Commander, Supt Mark Runacres, said: “We’re working closely with all our partner agencies in response to this series of tragic incidents and extensive enquiries are being carried out to identify those involved in the supply of heroin into our communities.
“We’ve made four arrests to date and have seized a substantial quantity of suspected heroin from a property in east Bristol. One of those arrested, a man in his thirties, has been charged with possession with intent to supply a class A drug (crack cocaine).
“If anyone has information which would help with our investigation, please call 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5223152117.”
The best way to minimise the risk is to avoid using heroin.
Advice is available on the Bristol Drug Project website.
Longer term support is available through a number of specialist organisations. Bristol ROADS offers a single point of contact for a range support options, delivered through a consortium of specialist organisations.
The Bristol Drugs Project Youth Team (BDP) work with a range of youth organisations to support young people who live in Bristol and are using alcohol or any drug.
If you are affected by someone else’s alcohol or drug, use you can access support through Developing Health & Independence.
You can also Talk To FRANK.
If you suspect someone is seriously ill call 999 for an ambulance immediately.