LGA on NAO report on drug related harms

Commenting on a report by the National Audit Office (NAO) calling for long term funding for drug treatment and support, Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the Local Government Association’s Community Wellbeing Board said: 

“People with drug and alcohol problems should be able to get the right support and treatment when they need it. For many problem users, their first experience of treatment is the catalyst for getting the help they need to address their physical and mental health problems.

“As this report rightly recognises, tackling the harm caused by illegal drugs is complex and it is too soon yet to tell if the 2021 Drugs Strategy has been a success, with indicators used to measure progress lagging behind activity.

“Funding councils have received from the drugs strategy has been important in addressing this issue in local communities. However, to achieve a long-term reduction in drug use, councils need clarity about funding in the future so they can continue to provide services which can transform lives.”