Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
3rd report - Problem drug use in Scotland follow-up: Glasgow’s Safer Drug Consumption Facility
Scottish Affairs Committee
HC 630
Published 16 September 2025
Government response
4th Special Report - Problem drug use in Scotland follow-up: Glasgow’s Safer Drug Consumption Facility: Government Response · published 20 Nov 2025
Recommendations & Conclusions
9
Conclusion
Exploring alternative, more cost-effective safer drug consumption facility models like mobile units has merit.
Conclusion
The Thistle is an example of just one model of a safer drug consumption facility, and it is possible that others — such as mobile units — could provide more cost-effective solutions, or interventions better suited to the needs of …
Read more
Scotland Office
View Details →
10
Conclusion
Local community concerns regarding The Thistle's impact require serious attention despite ongoing evaluation.
Conclusion
Community support and the impact of the SDCF on the local community is of paramount importance to the success of The Thistle. While we are reassured that the ongoing independent evaluation is monitoring the levels of discarded paraphernalia and the …
Read more
Scotland Office
View Details →
11
Conclusion
Develop and implement a responsive communication strategy for The Thistle, agreed by the Community Forum.
Conclusion
A responsive communication strategy must be developed by The Thistle, agreed by the Community Forum, and put in place as soon as possible in order to support the community engagement and partnership working that is crucial to the success of …
Read more
Scotland Office
View Details →
17
Recommendation
Not Addressed
Urgently complete assessment and support The Thistle's drug checking licence application.
Recommendation
The Home Office should urgently complete its assessment of The Thistle for a drug checking licence and should ensure any necessary support is provided to ensure The Thistle is successful in its application. The Home Office should provide an update …
Read more
Government Response Summary
The government clarifies that a controlled drug licence was issued in October to the Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS Board for a separate drug checking service, and this licence does not cover The Thistle itself.
Scotland Office
View Details →