The drug-related death rate in the Scottish Borders is below the national average according to statistics published today by the National Records of Scotland.

The Scotland average was 21.2 per 100,000 of population and the Scottish Borders registered 16.4.

Greater Glasgow and Clyde had the highest drug-related death rate of all health board areas at 30.8.

The figures cover a five-year period between 2016 and 2020.

A total of 1,339 drug-related deaths were registered in Scotland in 2020, which is an increase of 5% from 2019, and is the largest number of drug-related deaths since records began in 1996.

Other key findings show that the number of drug-related deaths has increased substantially over the last 20 years – there were 4½ times as many deaths in 2020 compared with 2000.

Men were 2.7 times as likely to have a drug-related death than women, after adjusting for age.

After adjusting for age, people in the most deprived parts of the country were 18 times as likely to die from a drug-related death as those in the least deprived.

Almost two thirds of all drug-related deaths were of people aged between 35 and 54. The average age of drug-related deaths has increased from 32 to 43 over the last 20 years.

Scotland’s drug-death rate continues to be over 3½ times that for the UK as a whole, and higher than that of any European country.

Dr Tim Patterson, Director of Public Health, said: “This report is a powerful reminder that people in our communities are dying unnecessarily early due to drug-related illnesses and deaths. These figures are people – they are our sons, daughters, friends and neighbours.

“The Borders has a tremendous community spirit, so I would like to draw on that and ask you to help us tackle the stigma which can often surround drug use.

“We need a whole community approach with everyone putting an end to unhelpful notions of stereotypes because we know that stigma and prejudice can put off some people who use drugs from seeking support.

“One way you can help is by recognising that language matters – stigmatising language reinforces negative stereotypes while person-centred language focuses on the person, not their substance use. Examples of this and more information is available on the Alcohol & Drugs Partnership page on our website.

“Most importantly, if you think you need support please get in touch with NHS Borders Addiction Service or We Are With You. If you are concerned about a loved one please get in touch with We Are With You or the national Scottish Families Affected by Drugs & Alcohol.”