Safer in Service Days of Action helping to tackle isolation across Aberdeenshire
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Supporting individuals who are dependent on drugs has been a key focus of recent ‘Safer in Service’ Days of Action.
While many people within our communities do struggle at this time of year, it is a particularly challenging time for those impacted by drug-related harm, with cold, hunger and isolation taking a considerable toll on their physical wellbeing.
The latest two-day outreach programme in Banff, Fraserburgh, Huntly and Turriff was supported by staff from a combination of Social Work, NHS, Housing, Community Safety and Police.
Teams undertook around 126 house visits and engaged with 55 vulnerable individuals in the north-east towns.
More than 20 also received helpful information cards signposting to support services including community foodbanks.
Complementing the outreach work and to disrupt those involved in exploiting the vulnerable, four drug search warrants were executed and one anti-social behaviour warning was issued linked to drug-dealing related community harm and drug-dealing.
Alison Wilson, Team Manager at Aberdeenshire Drug and Alcohol Service, added: “Sadly, we are all too aware that many drug deaths happen when people are on their own.
"It’s vital that we get the message across that those dependent on drugs should stick with their pals, that you don’t leave others alone and you don’t let overdoses occur.
"We know that those taking drugs suffer increased mental distress caused by a range of issues and strains on them in the winter months and that might lead to increased or mixed drug use and the consumption of far stronger substances than those prescribed.
"I hope that tackling such isolation within our communities will resonate with the wider public and that they realise they can play a vital role not just during the winter but throughout the year.”
Inspector Juliet Henderson from Police Scotland North-East Division said: “In addition to the seasonal increase in tragic drug-related deaths, we also know that ‘cuckooing’ or exploitation can occur because people are isolated and have no-one to reach out to.
"Regardless of their circumstances, everyone should feel safe within their own home, but sadly many of those targeted by dealers are drug-dependent individuals and other vulnerable people whose lives become a nightmare.
"Our Days of Action continue to play an important role in safeguarding and protecting these vulnerable people, while also taking enforcement action against those who would seek to take advantage of them.”
The ‘Safer in Service’ Days of Action are based on a four-tier approach:
Outreach
Cross agency teams carry out doorstep visits to people believed to be at risk of drug-related harm. Social Work, Health, Housing Services and Police colleagues offer support and bring people ‘into service’
Drop-in
A partnership ‘health bus’ is stationed prominently in the town centre. Health and Social Work staff in the bus engage with people dropping in and encourage them ‘into service’
Community harm reduction
Community Safety Officers from Aberdeenshire Council proactively investigate and gather evidence of drug dealing related antisocial behaviour. This evidence is used for civil proceedings such as Antisocial Behaviour Orders
Enforcement
Criminal Justice enforcement against drug-dealing activity through Drug Search Warrants. Police execute the warrants and are supported by Health and Social work colleagues who engage with individuals once searches are complete
If you or anyone you know are affected by drug-related harm, support and assistance are available to you by calling 07584 217210 (ARIES, Aberdeenshire).
If you live in Aberdeen City or Moray, support is also available by calling 03333 448355 (Alcohol and Drugs Action, Aberdeen) or 01343 610500 (Arrows, Moray).
If you are at risk or are being forced to sell controlled drugs, please call 101 or in an emergency call 999.
