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Tag: Health and wellbeing
‘Put your devices down!’
Opticians issue rallying call to young patients as part of National Eye Health Week
Children in Edinburgh have been urged to ‘ditch the devices’ as part of a nationwide screen amnesty to promote the importance of good eye health.
Independent optometrists have encouraged people to take good care of their eyes as part of National Eye Health Week, which runs from 22-28 September.
The awareness campaign aims to promote the importance of good eye health and the need for regular eye exams.
Ross Grant, manager of McGraths Opticians in Queensferry Street, Edinburgh, said: “Research shows half of all sight loss is avoidable, so we want to inspire our patients to make some small lifestyle changes that could make a big difference to their vision and eye health.
“As part of this year’s National Eye Health Week we’re advocating a screen amnesty at 8:20pm (20:20) – a perfect opportunity for parents to get their children to put their screens down and give their eyes a rest before bedtime.”
Emma Greenhall, manager of Hendry Opticians in Blackness Road, Linlithgow, added: “Research has shown that spending too long on digital devices can have an adverse impact on eye health. We want to keep our young patients seeing better for longer, so reducing screen time can really help with that.”
On average, people in the UK spend a staggering 35 hours a week staring at a computer screen, with 90 per cent saying they experience screen fatigue – tired or irritated eyes, blurred vision, headaches and poor colour perception.
Screen users can avoid eye strain by using the 20-20-20 rule, especially if they’re using a computer for long periods of time. Look 20 feet in front of you every 20 minutes for 20 seconds.
Organisers of National Eye Health Week have also issued a series of top tips such as eating a balanced diet featuring plenty of fruit, vegetables and nuts; quitting smoking; regular exercise and having regular eye exams, with a check-up encouraged at least once every two years.
During seven days of intense activity, the campaign will educate people about how to look after their eyes and inspire them to take action to protect their vision and prevent avoidable sight loss in the future.
Each day will focus on a different theme including; primary eye care services, children’s eye health, sports vision, eyes at work, ageing eyes and ‘live well to see well’.
For more information or to book an appointment visit:
www.mcgraths.co.uk or www.hendryopticians.co.uk
Warning UK faces dramatic rise in number suffering sight-threatening eye disease
More than 1.6 million new cases of sight-threatening eye disease are forecast over the next decade – the equivalent of one new case every three minutes!
The analysis carried out by Eye Health UK for National Eye Health Week (22-28 September) uses data modelled by York Health Economics Consortium to predict future cases of the four most common causes of sight loss – cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease.
Future forecasting predicts a 24 per cent rise in the number of people suffering late age-related macular degeneration – the UK’s leading cause of blindness and a 13 per cent surge in cases of glaucoma.
David Cartwright chair of Eye Health UK warns: “Urgent steps to tackle poor eye health, including greater uptake of sight tests and prevention strategies, are needed to avoid people suffering unnecessary and irrecoverable vision impairment. The good news though is half of all sight loss could be prevented with lifestyle changes, early detection, and timely treatment.”
Worryingly, four in ten Brits fail to have their eyes tested every two years, as recommended; with many people, particularly those living in socio-economic deprivation, rationing eye test attendance due to concerns about the cost of glasses, or delaying check-ups until symptoms cause concern.
This behaviour prevents early detection of eye disease and timely referral for sight-saving treatment.
Despite more than 30 million people being entitled to free NHS sight tests [6], and NHS optical vouchers being available to help with the cost of eyewear for those on low incomes, children and for people with complex prescriptions; a lack of awareness of these benefits perpetuates barriers to people attending routine eye checks and increases the risk of avoidable sight loss.
More than half (55%) of people on low incomes say they’re unaware of their entitlement to free NHS sight tests and fewer still (just four in 10) know about NHS help towards the cost of prescription eyewear.
Responding to the research, David Cartwright chair of Eye Health UK comments: “Educating people about their entitlement to help with eye care costs is vital to improve uptake of routine sight tests and mitigate the rising prevalence of sight-threatening eye disease, that’s being driven by an ageing and unhealthy population.”
Conditions like macular degeneration can be detected early during routine eye tests, saving sight and reducing the economic burden of vision impairment – the lifetime cost of a new case of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in an adult aged 50 or over, causing at least moderate visual impairment, is £73,350.
Referral for medical treatment and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can halt or slow the progression of AMD.
Important lifestyle changes for AMD patients and those at risk of the disease include eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, leafy green vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids; exercising regularly; quitting smoking; maintaining a healthy weight and protecting their eyes from the sun’s damaging UV.
To help people assess their chances of suffering future eye disease and understand how they can reduce the risks, we’ve created an eye health calculator which can be found here
Free advanced eye tests offered for Scottish drivers over 70 ahead of new laws for motorists
- Almost six million motorists could be affected by new laws forcing older drivers to prove their eyesight is road safe
- Optical Express is helping older drivers manage changes with free Advanced Eye Tests during National Eye Health Week
Britain’s over-70s are being offered a complimentary Advanced Eye Test this September – as the government considers forcing older motorists to undergo mandatory vision checks.
The potential shake-up comes after shocking RAC figures1 showed UK road deaths increased to 1,633 last year, with nearly 30,000 killed or seriously injured.
With nearly six million over-70s still on the road, and numbers increasing each year, experts warn the figures would get worse if action isn’t taken now.
To help older Brits get ahead and retain their safe driving independence, Optical Express is making available to every over-70 in the UK an Advanced Eye Test, waiving the need for those applicable to pay any private fees for this service during National Eye Health Week (22–28 September 2025).
The Advanced Eye Test is available at select Optical Express clinics across the UK with no cap on the number of appointments offered – meaning anyone and everyone in the age bracket that is a member of the UK Public can claim.
Optical Express’ Advanced Eye Tests go beyond the standard check. Every patient who attends an Advanced Eye Test at Optical Express undergoes a series of diagnostic tests, the results of which are much more innovative than those provided during a standard eye test.
They can spot early warning signs of eye conditions like glaucoma and cataracts, issues that often creep up unnoticed but can have an impact on driving ability.
Dr Stephen Hannan, Clinical Services Director at Optical Express, said: “Driving with poor eyesight is dangerous – for the driver, their passengers and everyone else on the road.
“With the government now considering tougher rules for over-70s, it’s more important than ever that older motorists take their eye health seriously. Regular vision and health tests should be seen as every bit as essential as an MOT or insurance.
“This initiative isn’t just about road safety. Good vision also means independence, confidence, and the freedom to keep driving for longer, all of which contribute to a better quality of life.
“By removing the cost barrier, we hope thousands of people will come forward for a free test during National Eye Health Week and take an important step towards protecting both their sight and their licence.”
Over-70s are being urged to book now to make sure their eyesight is up to scratch – and road safe.
For more information or to book a free Advanced Eye Test, visit www.opticalexpress.co.uk, call your local clinic or book in person.
Terms and conditions and the full list of clinics providing the service can be found at www.opticalexpress.co.uk/terms-and-conditions
Edinburgh Leisure’s ‘Balanced Life’ programme supports older adults to prevent falls
WORLD FALLS DAY – 22nd SEPTEMBER
As the world marks World Falls Day on 22nd September, Edinburgh Leisure is shining a spotlight on its Balanced Life programme – a specialist initiative helping adults reduce their risk of falling and maintain independence.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and hospital admissions among older adults. They place a significant burden on the NHS and social care, but many are preventable. It is estimated that falls cost the NHS more than £2.3 billion annually. In 2023, over 15,000 people attended A&E in relations to a fall, 10,000 of which were people over 50 years old. (Lothian Falls Prevention and Management Framework).
Working in collaboration with the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership (EHSCP), Balanced Life is integrated into Edinburgh’s new Falls Prevention and Management Pathway and is already making a difference across Edinburgh.
As well as Balanced Life, working in partnership with EHCP has enabled Edinburgh Leisure to grow their provision from 33 to 73 classes per week creating capacity to support 2,632 adults this year to improve their balance, strength, and confidence – key factors in preventing falls.
Balanced Life is an evidence-based two-tiered falls prevention programme designed for adults who have had or are at risk of having a fall. Offering a range of tailored classes which build strength, balance and mobility, this programme supports people to maintain their independence and enhance their quality of life through targeted exercises delivered by specially qualified instructors.
- Level 1 – Active Balance is a weekly class focusing on functional exercises that promote balance, confidence and daily movement
- Level 1 – Grounded Balance is a weekly class which teaches participants how to get down to and up from the floor safely using backward training principles to reduce ‘long lies’ following a fall
- Level 1 – Dynamic Balance is a weekly circuit-based class which focuses on strength and functional fitness
- Level 2 – Balance Plus is designed for people with a higher falls risk of having a fall. People referred to Balance Plus are asked to attend 3 classes per week to build their strength, mobility and balance confidence
Claire Craig, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “Falls are widely recognised as a significant and costly, yet largely preventable, source of harm within the health and social care system.
“We are excited to be working with Health & Social Care to expand our successful Steady Steps programme, launching a new two-tiered programme to reduce falls and frailty in the city.
“This collaboration is focused on reducing avoidable harm caused by falls and delivering meaningful, city-wide benefits for the people of Edinburgh, improving lives and helping ease pressure on the NHS.”
Hannah Cairns, Chief Allied Health Professional at the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “We have enjoyed working closely with Edinburgh Leisure on the falls prevention pathway.
“They bring a wealth of experience in the role of physical activity in health and wellbeing, and have a proven track record of delivering groups and services that have a positive impact on people’s lives.
“We are proud to support the development of Balance Life, a key contributor to the integration of physical activity within the newly developed falls prevention and management pathway.
“This collaboration is focused on reducing avoidable harm caused by falls and delivering meaningful, city-wide benefits for the people of Edinburgh.”
By supporting people to stay active and steady on their feet, Balanced Life is helping to reduce avoidable falls and the associated healthcare costs.
Balanced Life is referral-only, ensuring those most at risk are supported. Health and social care professionals can refer eligible individuals.
Edinburgh Leisure remains committed to promoting healthy ageing and tackling health inequalities through inclusive physical activity programmes.
To find out more about Balanced Life or how to refer someone, visit https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/balanced-life/ or speak to your local health practitioner.
If you would like to find out more about how people can reduce their risk of falling, visit https://services.nhslothian.scot/fallssupport/i-live-in-edinburgh/
New charity partnership to take action against dementia with giant inflatable brain tour
An exciting new charity partnership will help take action against dementia across Scotland and beyond with a giant inflatable brain tour as part of an innovative brain health programme.
Alzheimer Scotland has been selected as the Charity Partner for 2025/26 by Scotmid, which is Scotland’s largest independent co-operative and includes Semichem, Lake & Dales Coop, Scotmid Funerals and Fosters Funeral Directors.
Studies indicate that up to 45% of dementia cases worldwide may be preventable, often through making simple lifestyle changes.
As part of its ambitious plans for the 12-month partnership, Alzheimer Scotland will spread this prevention message by investing in a giant, walk-through inflatable brain – named Babs the Brain in honour of the late Dame Barbara Windsor, who died in 2020 of Alzheimer’s disease.
”Babs” will embark on a Big Brain Tour of Scotland, visiting stores as well as community venues.
At each stop, people can step inside the inflatable to learn how different areas of the brain work, enjoy interactive activities, and make their own personal brain health pledge.
The partnership will raise vital funds for brain health initiatives across Scotland, while Alzheimer’s Society will provide support to reach communities in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The partnership was officially launched at Scotmid’s HQ in Newbridge, Edinburgh, where colleagues and pupils from Hillwood Primary School were among the first to experience Babs the Brain.
Dame Barbara’s widower Scott Mitchell attended the event and has given the project his full support.
Henry Simmons, Alzheimer Scotland’s Chief Executive, said: “Alzheimer Scotland is delighted to be embarking on this charity partnership with Scotmid. We see this as the start of a shared mission to empower people of all ages to protect their brain health, reduce their risk of dementia, and help make sure that nobody faces dementia alone.
“This partnership gives us a unique opportunity to expand the work we do by finding creative ways to empower communities across Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland to look after their brain health.
“Not only will we raise vital funds, we will also leave a lasting legacy beyond this partnership of healthier habits, stronger connections, and better awareness of dementia prevention.”
Karen Scott, Scotmid’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re truly delighted to join forces with Alzheimer Scotland. This partnership isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about coming together with our communities to create real, positive change.
“By working hand in hand, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by dementia across Scotland.”
Scott Mitchell, who was appointed People’s Champion for the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals programme, said: “Babs the Brain and the brain health prevention work Alzheimer Scotland will be doing alongside it is a wonderful legacy for Barbara and something she would be proud to put her name to.
“I have no doubt she would have treated us to one of her famous giggles for the name alone!”
Other initiatives planned for the coming year include in-store ‘brain healthy’ shopping experiences, from recipe cards to highlighting ‘brain-boosting choices’.
Funds raised will also support Alzheimer Scotland’s STARS: My Amazing Brain schools project, which brings brain health education to children and families nationwide.
Palliative care partnership extended with new funding
Programme aims to improve patient experience and reduce admissions
The Scottish Government will extend a successful programme run by the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS), enabling its Palliative and End of Life Care team to continue its vital work this year.
This £417,000 investment will enable the dedicated SAS team to continue transforming care for patients nearing the end of life, enhancing dignity, comfort, and choice while reducing pressure on emergency services.
The team has developed 30 alternative care pathways to Emergency Departments, including direct referrals to hospices and cancer support helplines. These pathways ensure patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time—often in the comfort of their own homes.
This approach helps improve their quality of life in the final stages, allowing clinicians to provide more compassionate care tailored to each person’s specific needs.
In 2023-24 alone, it led to a:
- A reduction of 1,600 patients conveyed to hospital.
- 1,451 fewer ambulance attendances in 2023/24 compared to the previous year.
- 4000 staff trained in palliative care support.
Health Secretary Neil Gray said: “”The Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that everyone who needs it can access high-quality, timely, and well-coordinated palliative care.
“The work of the Palliative and End of Life Care Team is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through partnership working, and I am pleased that we are able to provide this funding to extend their vital work.”
Michael Dickson OBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Ambulance Service said: “We welcome this funding, which will help us build on the success of previous work and will further develop our specialist capability to support patients with palliative and end-of-life needs across Scotland.
“The funding will expand training, deepen our partnership working with health and social care partners and further improve patient experience, dignity, and choice at the end of life.”
‘Palliative Care Matters for All’, published this month by the Scottish Government, is a five-year strategy produced in partnership with NHS Scotland, charities, health and social care professionals, and people with experience of palliative care services.
NHS 24: Medicine Run Out?
Find where you can get more medication when your medicine supplies have run out.
NHS inform’s accessing medicines self-help guide will help to decide whether you need to contact your GP practice or pharmacy for more medication. The guide can be used for information about prescription and non-prescription medication.
World Suicide Prevention Day: You can interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts
The 10th of September 2025 marks World Suicide Prevention Day, and Samaritans Scotland is urging people across Scotland to show they care, interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts, and help save a life.
To mark the day, iconic buildings across Scotland will light up green to raise awareness of Samaritans and the help available to people struggling with suicidal thoughts. In Edinburgh, the striking Balmoral Hotel will light its clock tower green, whilst in Glasgow the Science Centre will also be illuminated. Dundee’s Discovery Point will also light up green, and further north, Shetland’s Lerwick Town Hall will also be lit in the charity’s well-known colour.
The message to people in Scotland is that suicide is not inevitable. An interruption could be a face-to-face conversation, a phone call, text or any other way of connecting with someone when they’re experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Research released by Samaritans this year indicated that over half of adults in Scotland (68%) would appreciate someone check offering words of support if they were struggling to cope. However, nearly half of the respondents in Scotland (38%) admitted avoiding initiating a conversation with someone who didn’t seem okay. For some, they were worried they’d say the wrong thing. For others, they worried their help wouldn’t be welcomed.
To help people feel empowered to initiate a conversation with someone who may be feeling suicidal, Samaritans has put together a guide on how to interrupt someone’s suicidal thoughts with simple tips and advice, led by those with lived and living experience. You can find the guide here. In the guide, people can find ways to begin a conversation, how to be there for someone in the moment, how to listen without judgement, and how to help the person take their mind off how they’re feeling.
Many people may feel uncomfortable asking someone outright if they are having suicidal thoughts. Samaritans is encouraging people not to be afraid to ask the question, or of using the word ‘suicide’, as this gives people permission to open up. The charity has said that talking about suicide doesn’t have to be frightening, it shows that you care and gives the person space to share how they’re feeling.
Whilst it can be a difficult topic, you don’t have to be an expert or know the exact ‘right’ thing to say. Being there and showing that you care can make all the difference. Listen with empathy and without judgement to help the person open up about how they’re feeling, and don’t be afraid to ask someone if they’re feeling suicidal.
Representatives from Samaritans Scotland’s Lived Experience Advisory Group said: “If you think someone is struggling, even a stranger, it’s okay to reach out. A simple question like ‘are you okay?’ can be an interruption that saves a life.
“Even a small moment of connection can bring hope. That moment whispers: wait, stay, breathe.”
Danielle Rowley, Head of Policy and Communications at Samaritans Scotland, said: “It’s so important that we talk about suicide in order to prevent suicide, even though it can be challenging to approach and difficult to know what to say.
We want to encourage people to feel confident and safe speaking about suicide, and not to be afraid of using the word. If you are worried about someone, asking them if they feel suicidal almost gives permission for them to talk about it too. By allowing people to talk about how they really feel, we can help to save lives.”
Samaritans offers a free and confidential helpline for those in crisis and struggling to cope. If you’re suicidal or struggling to cope, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123.
More information about the campaign can be found on our webpage here.
The House of Hope Scotland raises £70,000 at inaugural gala ball
The House of Hope Scotland celebrated a remarkable fundraising achievement at its inaugural Gala Ball, raising £70,000 through silent auction, live auction and donations on the night at the prestigious Prestonfield House in Edinburgh.
The sell-out event, held on 5 September, brought together supporters and the Scottish business community for an incredible evening of education and celebration. The event was hosted by popular broadcaster Grant Stott and STV News Entertainment Reporter Laura Boyd, with Grant’s rendition of “That’s Fife!” proving a particular highlight of the evening.
“I’m honestly blown away by what happened on Friday night,” said Lisa Fleming, founder of The House of Hope. “To raise £70,000 is just incredible, especially in today’s economic climate. It shows how much people believe in what we’re doing and want to help others going through this journey.”
The funds raised will directly support The House of Hope’s comprehensive range of services, including wellbeing therapies, tailored workshops, classes and emotional support services, all of which are provided free of charge to people affected by breast cancer and their families.
The House of Hope is Scotland’s first dedicated wellbeing and support centre for people affected by breast cancer and their families. Founded by Lisa Fleming, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, alongside husband Euan, the charity provides a welcoming, non-clinical sanctuary offering vital holistic support services.
The success of the Gala Ball was made possible through the generous support of sponsors including headline sponsor BTO Solicitors LLP, Hunters Gardens, and CF Services, alongside the continued partnership of partners Scotto and Estee Lauder Companies.
“The whole evening was just magical,” Lisa added. “From our amazing sponsors to Grant and Laura keeping everyone entertained, to every single person who bid in the auctions or made a donation, everyone played a part in making this happen.
A huge thank you as well to Prestonfield House and Signature Pub Group for donating the VIP and drinks receptions on the evening. This money will help us reach so many more people affected by breast cancer who need our support.”
New report shows how people who self-harm are being supported
SELF-HARM NETWORK SCOTLAND – IMPACT REPORT
Self-Harm Network Scotland’s (SHNS) latest Impact Report has been published, which contains key information about how the self-harm support service has helped people during April 2024 – March 2025.
Anyone in need of self-harm support in Scotland (aged 12 and over) can refer themselves to the service’s one-to-one support sessions via the Contact Us page on their website. Support is provided remotely by Peer Practitioners, who all have their own lived experience of self-harm.
212 people received one-to-one support during April 24 – March 25, with a total of 1,805 one-to-one support sessions taking place, averaging seven to eight sessions per supported person. Almost two thirds (62%) of referrals that were received were for people aged 30 or under. Feedback from those who exited one-to-one support shows that all respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the service was trustworthy and reliable.
Dee, from Helensburgh, is one of the people who has benefited from Self-Harm Network Scotland’s one-to-one support. She said: “I have been battling with poor mental health and self-harm for over 30 years, but I know that I am not alone.
“I was offered one-to-one support within five days. Me and my Peer Practitioner Isabella had an instant connection, and I immediately felt at ease.”
“I wasn’t talking to someone who had read textbooks. I was talking to someone with personal, lived experience, and a deeper understanding. It was very different to the type of support that I had experienced in the past. I was encouraged every step of the way and was able to turn ideas into my own thing.”
Watch Dee’s Story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wygdt7fVduQ&feature=youtu.be
Live Chat
SHNS also helps people in need of more immediate support for their self-harm and distress via an out-of-hours live webchat service, which is available on Self-Harm Network Scotland’s website every evening (6pm – 10pm), seven days a week.
599 support conversations took place on the Live Chat between April 2024 – March 2025.
The most discussed topics on the Live Chat were: Self-Harm (83% of chats), Mental Health (52% of chats), Emotional distress (38% of chats), Suicidal thoughts (26% of chats).
An end of chat survey asks supported people to rate the helpfulness of the chat, with 86% of 198 respondents to the survey rating it as ‘Very helpful’ or ‘Somewhat Helpful.’ Additionally, 55% of respondents reported that they had used the Live Chat before, which suggests that they trust the service and find value in the support they have received.
Self-Harm Strategy
SHNS is part of Penumbra Mental Health, a pioneering charity providing dedicated services for people with mild to serious and enduring mental ill health. SHNS works together with the Scottish Government and COSLA in delivering their Self-Harm Strategy and Action Plan, which is believed to be the first of its kind in the world. The action plan prioritises addressing discrimination, reducing stigma around self-harm, and improving support.
Self-Harm Awareness Training
SHNS develop and deliver informative and accessible Self-Harm Awareness training and resources to help improve understanding of self-harm, raise awareness, and reduce stigma.
During 2024/2025, 180 Self-Harm Awareness training sessions were delivered to 2,137 people. This included specific sessions for 67 organisations ranging from local authorities, health boards, education establishments, and a range of third sector organisations.
Self-Harm Awareness training continues to see strong and increasing demand from organisations, delivering to almost 500 more professionals than in the previous year. Participants’ experience of the training remains overwhelmingly positive, with evidence suggesting that the training is helping to increase knowledge and understanding of self-harm.
Our Impact Report shows that ninety-eight percent of people who gave feedback after taking part in Self-Harm Awareness training agreed or strongly agreed that they had a better understanding of where help and support exists for people who self-harm.
Darren Boyd, SHNS Programme Manager, said: “Self-Harm Network Scotland’s latest Impact Report reflects a year of significant change, development, and learning across the service, as we’ve continued to centre lived experience in all that we do.
“The past year has been about creating safer spaces, holding complexity without judgment, and responding to people’s pain with care and consistency.”
“We know that compassionate, person-centred support doesn’t just make a difference — it saves lives. At the core of everything we do is the belief that recovery is possible — and that it should be defined by the individual. It is voices like Dee’s that remind us why we do what we do – and who we do it for.”
Read the Impact Report here: https://selfharmnetworkscotland.org.uk/our-impact/
If you, or anyone you know, are looking for support with your self-harm, please visit our website: https://selfharmnetworkscotland.org.uk/
Tackling drug deaths
Funding allocated to early intervention and women’s support services
Services helping women affected by drugs and preventing substance use by young people are to benefit from more than £2 million funding.
Minister for Drugs Policy Maree Todd announced the support during a statement to the Scottish Parliament on the National Records of Scotland latest statistics on drug misuse deaths. These showed a decrease of 13% to 1,017 compared to the previous year.
Recognising additional challenges faced by women who use drugs, £1.1 million has been awarded to Aberlour Children’s Charity for its perinatal support and recovery services. In Glasgow, £750,000 will be delivered through the Corra Foundation to make it easier for women affected by substance use to access services.
The ‘Winning Scotland’s Planet Youth’ initiative, which aims to create an environment that consistently supports young people to make healthy choices, has been allocated £750,000 to continue its work. NRS statistics for last year noted a drop in the number of deaths among young people from drugs, with 34 under-25s compared with 58 in 2023.
Ms Todd said: “I want to express my deepest condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of the 1,017 people who lost their lives to drugs in 2024.
“Our National Mission on Drugs has delivered a number of positive developments, including widening access to life-saving naloxone kits to reverse overdoses and creating more residential rehabilitation beds. It is welcome that we have seen progress with the number of deaths at the lowest level since 2017, but these tragic drug deaths figures remind us, however, that there is much more to do.
“To that end, we are providing record funding of more than £160 million for alcohol and drugs in 2025-26. We will also accelerate the delivery of new initiatives, such as the drug checking pilot project. And subject to the Scottish Parliament’s agreement, we will be maintaining funding beyond next year to address harm caused by drugs and intensively support recovery.
“While there is nothing we can do to bring back those whose lives have been so tragically cut short, nor to ease the unimaginable grief that their loved-ones must feel, we will continue to do all we can to end the devastating impacts of drugs in Scotland.”