TACKLE DRUG RELATED STIGMA AND INCREASE NALOXONE PROVISION

During a Parliamentary Debate on Scotland’s National Mission to reduce drug related deaths, South Scotland SNP MSP Emma Harper has called on the Scottish Government to increase action to tackle drug related stigma and to increase the availability of naloxone – the first line of defence against overdose – across rural parts of Scotland, such as Dumfries and Galloway.

Commenting, Ms Harper said:

“It was important that the Scottish Parliament be given the opportunity to debate the progress being made in reducing Scotland’s drug related deaths and I used the opportunity to call for greater action to support those requiring support with drug addiction across rural Scotland, such as in D&G. In particular, I called for greater action to tackle stigma and to increase the provision of naloxone – the first line of defence against overdose – across rural areas.

“We need to reduce prejudice, discrimination and associated stigma. There persists the view among the public that people who use illicit and non-illicit substances that cause harm are just low-lives and criminals who do not deserve anyone’s help. They do need our help. They are our sons and daughters, our friends and family members, and we need to support them.

“Attracting health workers into jobs in drug and alcohol services is also difficult and there is stigma associated with the health professionals in this specialty too. So, we must do whatever we can to reduce stigma for all.

“In my health career as a nurse, I have witnessed the negative consequences of using stigmatising language such as ‘addict’, ‘alcoholic’, ‘druggie’ and ‘junkie’, and that needs to change. I am pleased that the Minister has asked to meet with me to discuss action to better address stigma, including my request to NHS Education Scotland, to create education modules with a focus on tackling stigma for health and care staff, including those not working directly in the drugs and alcohol service.

“I also welcome the fact that, during the pandemic, families of those who use opiates have been supplied take-home naloxone kits to prevent overdose. However, concerns have been raised that this isn’t the case in many of our rural areas. I asked for consideration to be given to increase the number of naloxone kit distributing sites and increase training to be provided on their use, as fatal overdose can be prevented.

“Rural Scotland must be part of Scotland’s national mission to tackle drug related deaths and the Scottish Government must continue to pursue this as a Public Health issue, not a criminal issue as the power to legislate currently current is retained by Westminster. This public health issue is what I will continue to press for recognition and agreement on.”