Scotland has approved the establishment of the United Kingdom’s first official drug consumption room for illegal drugs. The £2.3 million ($2.8 million) facility in Glasgow will provide a clean environment where users can take their own drugs under medical supervision.
The decision by the Glasgow City Integration Joint Board marks the end of years of political and legal arguments between the parliaments in London and Edinburgh. The board cited “overwhelming international evidence” showing that such facilities improve the health, well-being, and recovery of addicts. It also aims to address the issue of drug use on the streets, which has been negatively impacting local communities and businesses.
Scotland’s Lord Advocate Dorothy Bain recently clarified that it would not be in the public interest to prosecute individuals using such a facility, further paving the way for its approval.
Consumption Of illicit Drugs A Major Problem In Nigeria
Scotland’s drug and alcohol policy minister, Elena Whitham, welcomed the news, emphasizing that while it is not a complete solution, evidence from over 100 similar facilities worldwide indicates that safer drug consumption facilities are effective.
Former addict Peter Krykant, who had set up an unofficial sterile drug-consumption facility in Glasgow, stressed the importance of moving away from criminalizing drug users and providing them with a safe and supportive environment.
Some proponents also argue for the provision of heroin to addicts as a means to address the issue of drug acquisition from criminal sources.
Follow us on Facebook
Post Disclaimer
The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author and forum participants on this website do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of Anaedo Online or official policies of the Anaedo Online.