31 August 2022
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is a global event held on 31 August every year. IOAD aims to raise awareness of overdoses, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and acknowledge the grief felt by the families and friends of those who have lost their lives as a result of overdose.
To show support and raise awareness, Scottish Borders Council HQ in St Boswells and TD1 Youth Hub in Galashiels will be lit up purple today to show support and honour those who have lost their lives to overdose.
In addition, an overdose awareness training event is taking place at the MacArts Centre in Galashiels from noon until 2.00pm. Online training is also available through the following link: https://www.sdftraining.org.uk/e-learning/156-overdose-prevention-intervention-and-naloxone-3
Every death is a tragedy. We are committed to taking action to reduce drug deaths in the region - both by educating people and by implementing measures to reduce the mortality rate of overdose.
As part of our ongoing efforts, we have supplied more than 1,660 take home Naloxone kits since Scotland’s National Naloxone Programme began in 2011.
Naloxone is a medication which can be given in the event of an overdose to temporarily reverse the effects of the overdose and allow time for emergency services to arrive. These kits are available to opiate drug and opiate substitute users and their family members aged sixteen and over.
Dr Tim Patterson, Director of Public Health and Chair of Borders Alcohol and Drugs Partnership, said:“This International Overdose Awareness Day, we are taking the opportunity to raise awareness of overdoses and remember those who have sadly lost their lives to overdose.
“No family should ever have to go through the pain of losing a loved one to overdose – and everyone has a part to play in reducing drug-related deaths in our community.
“Something we can all do is educate ourselves on the signs of overdose, and the measures we can take to intervene if we suspect someone has overdosed.
“It is also crucial that perceptions of drug use are changed. The Borders has a tremendous community spirit, so I would like to draw on that and ask you to help us continue to tackle the stigma which can often surround drug use.
“We will continue to work to ensure those at risk can access the services and support that they need.”