Question reference: S6W-26818
- Asked by: Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 11 April 2024
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Current status: Answered by Christina McKelvie on 1 May 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what it is doing to ensure that alcohol treatment initiatives, such as the Primary Care Alcohol Nurse Outreach Service (PCANOS), are maintained as key services in addressing Scotland’s reportedly rising alcohol harms.
Answer
We’re determined to do all we can to reduce alcohol-related harm and are working closely with Alcohol and Drug Partnerships and the third sector to do so. Drug and alcohol services have seen a significant increase in funding as a result of the National Mission to ensure treatment services are in place to support people impacted by alcohol and drugs.
For example, we are exploring the evidence around Managed Alcohol Programmes and are delighted to be able to contribute to the running of the innovative model being piloted in Glasgow by Simon Community Scotland and its evaluation.
In addition, we are working with stakeholders to create a national service specification alongside guidance for alcohol treatment in Scotland, supported by a meaningful treatment target. This work will build on the forthcoming UK-wide Clinical Alcohol Treatment Guidelines, developed by Office for Health Improvement and Disparities.