Figures produced by Manchester University and published by the National Treatment Agency (NTA) today indicate that 89 per cent more drug misusers were in contact with drug treatment services in 2004/05 by comparison to 1998/99.
The results from the National Drug Treatment Monitoring System (NDTMS) reveal that 160,450 people received specialist, structured drug treatment in England during 2004/05 - an increase of 27 per cent on 2003/04 (125,545) and 89 per cent on the 1998/99 baseline of 85,000.
The data also indicated that over 30,000 more people had either successfully completed or continued treatment at end of March 2005, when compared to March 2004.
"This is excellent news. More people are getting into treatment more quickly than ever before, and more people are staying the course," says NTA chief executive, Paul Hayes. "It shows that the extra money being invested in treatment is paying off. Back in 1998, only one in three problematic drug users were getting treatment - now it's two out of three and rising. Much remains to be done. Over the next three years we will strive to persuade as many of those who currently do not come forward for treatment to do so, and focus attention on improving the quality of treatment - as well as the quantity."
Public Health Minister, Caroline Flint, said: "This is great news. Today's figures show that the Government's substantial investment and improved performance management is making a huge difference - with more and more drug users than ever before able to get the treatment they need.
"Treating drug misusers is central to improving public health and creating safer communities. My challenge is to engage the support of housing, education and employment partners in order to give drug users real opportunities to rebuild their lives and reintegrate with their families and communities."
Commenting on the figures, DrugScope Chief Executive Martin Barnes said ""These figures from the NTA make good reading and are a testament to the significant investment being made in drug treatment. However, we know from our members that there are concerns over the recruitment, training and retention of the skilled workforce needed to deliver drug services effectively. In particular there are shortfalls in staff working with young people, black and minority ethnic groups and people with mental health problems.
"The government and the NTA recognise that there is a need to improve the quality of treatment and not just increase numbers in treatment, but this will require more investment in aftercare services and support. Better housing, employment and training opportunities and peer group support for former drug users must be even higher up the agenda, but this requires buy-in and commitment from across government as well as funders of local services."
For more information go to
Source: www.nta.nhs.uk
Posted: 21st October 2005
