Drug addicts waiting far too long for treatment

5.02.24pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 30th Mar 2010

Commenting on statistics released today on Drug Treatment Waiting Times by ISD Scotland which shows that 9% of those waiting for an assessment for drug treatment had to wait more than 52 weeks and 5% of those waiting for community treatment still had to wait more than 52 weeks, Liberal Democrat Justice Spokesman Robert Brown said:

“Drug addiction and the damage it does to individuals and communities is supposed to be a high priority for the SNP Government. It is appalling that there are so many drug addicts waiting so long for treatment that they really need.

“What the figures boil down to in practice is that many people have to wait six months or up to a full year before they are even assessed and then wait longer again for community based treatments. These treatments have been shown to be a very effective intervention for drug addicts – but it is not much use if they can’t get started.

“It is time that the Scottish Government found out why some people have to wait so long for treatment and took action to resolve the problems.

“We will not be able to eradicate the scourge of drug addiction if those needing the help the most cannot get the treatment they need.”