Wiltshire see's rise in drug related deaths during first year of the pandemic
Work is underway to establish a joint approach to help incidents like these be reviewed
During the first year of the pandemic, there was a rise in the number of drug related deaths** in Wiltshire, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics.
From March 2020 to March 2021 29 were recorded in the county, up from 23 during 2019 and is the highest number since 2016.
Of those that died, 19 people were recorded as dying due to illegal drug misuse or dependence.
Director of public health for Wiltshire, Kate Blackburn said:
“Wiltshire Council records drug related deaths notified by the commissioned substance misuse service, Turning Point. Notifications relate to individuals who are engaging, or have previously engaged with Turning Point for support.
“South-West Substance Misuse commissioners are working on establishing a joint approach via the South-West Alcohol and Drug Commissioner Network in responding to drug related deaths; ensuring there’s an aligned approach to reviews, sharing of information and responding to trends.
“During the pandemic Turning Point’s support hubs have remained open across Wiltshire, as well as access to digital interventions where appropriate. We continue to work closely with our partners on increasing earlier access to help and support for increasing and higher risk drinkers and those that use drugs.”
Ben Judd, senior operations manager at Turning Point, said:
“Nationally, there has been a significant increase in drug related deaths. Thankfully, we have not seen the increases in Swindon and Wiltshire that have been seen in some other parts of the country; however, even one death is too many and our thoughts are with anyone who has lost someone this way.
“Every drug or alcohol related death is preventable. We know that treatment works and this is the best way to protect against drug related deaths. Turning Point services have remained open throughout the pandemic, IMPACT achieves really good treatment outcomes compared against other local authorities and we have seen new referrals increase over the last year.
“However, there is still more to be done and additional funding from central government will enable us to reach even more people over the next two years.”
Anyone concerned for themselves or a loved one when it comes to drug or alcohol use can contact Turning Point for support.
You should call 0345 603 6993, you can also find your local support hub by visiting their website.