Report calls for ‘decisive action’ from Police Scotland in Scotland’s drug crisis

A major inspection has called on Police Scotland to set out a clear policy on drug harm reduction amid what it describes as “one of the most severe public health crises in the developed world.“

His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary in Scotland (HMICS) carried out a detailed review of how effectively the force helps minimise drug-related harm.

While praising Police Scotland’s “valuable contribution” – including equipping more than 12,500 officers with the overdose-reversing drug naloxone – inspectors warned that significant strategic gaps remain.

The report urges Police Scotland to define its role and purpose within a public health-led approach to drugs, and to provide frontline officers with clear guidance on how to balance harm-reduction responsibilities with their traditional crime-enforcement duties.

HM Chief Inspector of Constabulary in Scotland, Craig Naylor, said: “Scotland continues to face one of the most severe drug-related public health crises in the developed world.

“In 2024 alone, 1,017 drug use deaths were registered – the highest rate in Europe and a stark reminder of the scale of the challenge.

“Police Scotland has demonstrated a willingness to adapt and contribute meaningfully to the national effort to reduce drug-related harm.

“However, to improve its response, Police Scotland should take decisive steps to strengthen its strategic and operational approach.

“This includes making clear its policy on drug harm reduction – defining the policing purpose within a public health approach and providing frontline officers with practical guidance on how to balance enforcement with harm reduction.”

The HMICS report praised Police Scotland for its work with the Alcohol and Drug Partnerships (ADP) and the development of local initiatives supporting prevention, intervention and recovery.

It said that since the rollout of naloxone to Police Scotland officers more than 900 administrations had been recorded to date – which showed the initiative had saved lives.

The report said specialist policing units provided critical intelligence on emerging threats, supporting public health surveillance and disrupting high-harm supply chains.

This work complemented the efforts of local policing teams and contributed to a more co-ordinated and intelligence-led response to synthetic opioids, polydrug use and organised criminal activity.

The report said Police Scotland worked closely with partner organisations in local police divisions to examine and swiftly share information relevant to drug-related harm, drug deaths and near-fatal overdoses.

They also found evidence of a positive shift in policing culture – improved empathy, engagement and trauma-informed practice among officers.

But the report also found a “lack of clarity” on how the force intends to balance a public-health approach with the enforcement-led framework of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which remains central to police training.

HMICS warned this can conflict with public health principles and lead to confusion among officers about what a public health approach means in practice.

Inspectors made seven recommendations, including publishing a clear policy on drug harm reduction, establishing measurable targets, monitoring performance and sharing learning across divisions.

Mr Naylor stressed that Police Scotland cannot solve Scotland’s drug crisis alone.

“We recognise that while Police Scotland is a key partner in drug harm reduction, it does not have lead responsibility for national strategy, funding or the wide range of intervention and support services delivered by partner organisations.”

He called for a “whole-system approach” underpinned by sustained Scottish Government investment, shared accountability and collaboration across statutory and third-sector partners.

The Thistle: UK's first drugs consumption room in Glasgow — The Thistle: UK’s first drugs consumption room in Glasgow STV News

The report also highlighted Glasgow’s safer drug consumption facility, the Thistle, describing it as a “small but significant” contributor to reducing drug-related harm. It said the centre had been operating for only around seven months when evidence was gathered, and its overall impact is yet to be assessed.

It noted Police Scotland had collaborated in the development and policing arrangements for the centre.

Assistant Chief Constable Catriona Paton said: “We welcome this report which highlights our positive work with alcohol and drug partnerships and support for local prevention, intervention and recovery initiatives that help reduce drug harm within our communities.

“The illegal consumption of drugs has a devastating impact and we have the deepest sympathy for those affected. We work closely with partners to share information on drugs trends, emerging threats and intelligence so they can provide swift intervention and support to communities as part of a multiagency public health approach to drugs harm.

“In addition, all our officers are equipped with Naloxone, an emergency first aid response to drug overdose, which has been administered almost 1000 times since it was introduced, potentially saving many lives.

“However our primary role is always to enforce the law. Officers work tirelessly to remove illegal drugs from communities and share intelligence with national and international law enforcement agencies aimed at disrupting the activities of organised criminals who profit from the harm caused.

“The recommendations contained within this report will be used to further inform policy and guidance for officers in support of prevention and operational delivery in this complex area.”