Today the UK Government will publish its new Drugs Strategy,
including a significant funding package. The strategy brings with
it a significant increase in spending towards prevention and
substance misuse treatment.
Commenting on the publication of the new Drugs Strategy, Jon
Murray, Executive Director at drugs, alcohol and mental health
charity With You, said:
‘‘We are pleased to see that the Government has strengthened its
commitment to implementing the Dame Carol Black Review and hope
this is a breakthrough moment.
The additional funding for drug treatment services is vital. Dame
Carol Black made a strong ‘invest to save’ case for drug
treatment, where every £1 spent on harm reduction and treatment
gives a combined return on investment of £4. Drug misuse issues
cut across different Government departments and the lack of
joined-up efforts has been a major barrier to progress. Having
said that, we also know that people who develop problems with
drugs need compassion and support, not punishment.
We welcome the serious political commitment made to investing in
treatment and look forward to working collaboratively to address
these complex issues. Though progress takes time, we hope that
this can be the beginning of a new era for the people we work
with and the services they need."
