Inverclyde lights up for International Overdose Awareness Day
Inverclyde Council is joining people around the world to mark International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31.
The council is lighting up the iconic Shipbuilders Statue purple to remember those in Inverclyde who have lost a loved one to drugs.
Recently published figures showed 26 people in Inverclyde lost their lives to drugs in 2023, a fall from 29 the previous year.
The awareness day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of friends and family left behind.
The theme for 2024 is ‘Together we can’, highlighting the power of our community when we all stand together.
Councillor Robert Moran, chair of Inverclyde’s Integrated Joint Board (IJB), said: “We should never forget that behind each drug-related death is someone’s beloved family member or friend, and that each death is a tragedy.
“Our thoughts go to all those families affected.
“Reducing drug-related deaths is a top priority in Inverclyde and the actions taken to achieve this is led by the HSCPs Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service, which delivers direct care treatment to those affected by drug and alcohol, and The Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) which brings together the council, HSCP and a variety of public, private and third-sector partners, all with the common goal of taking actions to reduce the likelihood of these tragedies from happening.
“We’ve never shied away from the reality of the challenges in Inverclyde but it is positive to note that there has been a slight drop in numbers between 2022 and 2023.
“I am pleased we are taking the time to remember, without stigma, those who have lost their lives to drugs in Inverclyde.
“There is a lot of good work being taken forward out there with support available for anyone who is struggling and I would urge those affected to seek that help.
“Please go to https://inverclydeadp.org.uk/ to find out more.”
September is Recovery Month and Inverclyde ADP is involved in a number of events, including International Overdose Awareness Day Information and Awareness Stall on Friday, August 30, Remembrance Ribbons tied to a tree in Clyde Square and a Candlelit Vigil on Sunday, September 1. For more information click on the link in the top right of the page.