Lanarkshire MSP warns drug deaths will rise unless funding reaches the frontline

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A Lanarkshire Labour MSP has warned that drug deaths in Lanarkshire will increase without urgent support for families and frontline services.And those working to support people affected by substance use have told the Scottish Government that funding allocated at community level is not enough to support delivery of the National Mission to reduce drug-related fatalities.Monica Lennon MSP who has been campaigning on drug and alcohol issues in the Scottish Parliament since 2016 has welcomed an Evaluation of the National Drug Deaths Mission.The report has found that only around one in three Alcohol and Drug Partnership co-ordinators believed the SNP government leadership was effective.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android The Central Scotland list MSP said: “Sadly this report reveals that local workers on the frontline of the drugs crisis do not have confidence in the SNP’s leadership.“The SNP must listen to frontline workers and work with them to deliver the funding this essential mission needs.”“Waiting lists are too long and there are many barriers to treatment, rehab and recovery.“Tragically, I know there are people and families across Lanarkshire today who are crying out for help.“We need a new direction that empowers people to get well and protects our communities from the chaos caused by drug and