Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 19
19
Acknowledged
Demonstrate an evidence-based approach and consider The Thistle's independent evaluation for policymaking.
Recommendation
The UK Government must demonstrate that it has an evidence-based approach to policy making and will consider the independent evaluation of The Thistle. Any intervention found to be effective at saving lives and reducing harm should not be dismissed. (Recommendation, Paragraph 136)
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges its commitment to an evidence-based approach to drug policy, citing existing programs like Individual Placement and Support, naloxone availability, and heroin-assisted treatment.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
Response: The Government is committed to an evidence-based approach towards drug policy within the law, ensuring we are following the evidence and taking account of any relevant considerations when providing measures to tackle substance misuse. This commitment has been demonstrated by our world leading, evidence-based Individual Placement and Support Programme, which is successfully helping those struggling with substance dependence disorders find and keep paid jobs. The Government has also demonstrated a commitment to following the evidence through its successful widening of the availability of naloxone to prevent overdose deaths. The Government has also been consistent in its support for heroin assisted treatment, and opioid substitution treatment (typically using methadone or buprenorphine) the most widely studied medical intervention for heroin dependence, with long-term evidence for reduced drug use, injecting and mortality.