Scottish Parliament Committee launch inquiry into tackling harm caused by substance misuse in Scottish prisons

An inquiry has been launched into tackling harms caused by substance misuse in Scottish prisons, by the Criminal Justice Committee.

The inquiry is split into three parts and will consider the impact of substances, including drugs and alcohol, in Scotland’s prisons. The first part will look at how substances enter prison facilities, detection and prevention strategies and the role of organised crime.

The second part of the inquiry will consider the impact of drug and other substance use in prisons. This will include the impact on individuals, their families and the staff who work in these settings.

The third part of the inquiry will focus on rehabilitation and support for incarcerated substance users. It will look at why prisoners turn to drugs and other substances whilst incarcerated, the availability of healthcare, treatment and rehabilitation programmes, and the throughcare and aftercare support post-release.

The Committee will seek to highlight any potential solutions to the issues identified.

The inquiry was launched following a recommendation from a recent People’s Panel who highlighted serious concerns about the rise and strength of synthetic drugs, the impact this is having on both people in prison and prison staff, and the urgent need for better rehabilitation and support.

The Committee is keen to hear from those with lived experience, prison staff, key stakeholder organisations such as the Scottish Prison Service, support services and the third sector, academics and the Scottish Government.

As the call for views launched, Criminal Justice Committee Convener, Audrey Nicoll MSP, said:
“We listened intently to the concerns raised by the People’s Panel and our Committee was keen to take action to look into this serious issue.”

“As one of the Scottish Parliament Committees which considers issues related to drug harms and drug deaths in Scotland, we are acutely aware of the suffering caused by substance misuse and the sensitivities around these issues.

“There is no doubt this is a multifaceted issue, and our inquiry will look into the supply of illegal substances, the impact of illegal substances, and the support and rehabilitation services available for those struggling with the effects of usage.

“We are keen to better understand these issues and to evaluate how the Scottish Prison Service and other authorities are dealing with this challenge, and to identify any potential solutions.”

The Convener added:

“We want to hear from people with lived experience of these issues, including individuals, families and from those who work in these settings, to help us understand how things are working in practice and what changes are needed.”

You can let the Committee know your views on Citizen Space.

Read the questions and submit your views

The call for views closes on 22 August 2025.