Figures for suspected drug deaths show 8% decrease in 2021

The latest figures on suspected drug deaths in Scotland show an 8% decrease in 2021 from the previous year.

There were 1,295 suspected drug deaths between January and December 2021, according to Police Scotland’s quarterly management information.

In 2020, the equivalent number was 1,411.

However, this method of recording differs from the official statistics produced by National Records Scotland (NRS), which found there were 1,339 confirmed drug-related deaths in 2020.

The NRS data for 2021 has not yet been published.

Within the Police Scotland data, males accounted for 73% of suspected drug deaths, a 3% decrease on the previous year.

More than two-thirds (67%) of suspected drug deaths were aged between 34 and 54.

Drugs Policy Minister Angela Constance said: “I want to extend my deepest sympathy to all those affected by the loss of a loved one through drugs.

“I know that despite this decline in the number of suspected drug deaths, the figure is still far too high and, as I have said before there, is much hard work to be done to turn this public health emergency around.”

She said the government was working to improve treatment standards and increase residential rehabilitation spaces.

Ms Constance continued: “There has been a slight increase in the number of deaths among females and we are committed to tackling the barriers which prevent women from accessing treatment, support and recovery.

“One of our priorities is to develop and increase women-specific services, and services to keep children and families together.

“I am determined that the £250 million we are investing in tackling this public health emergency will make a difference and we will continue to prioritise our efforts to turn this crisis around.”