NHS Western Isles has welcomed the news there were no drug-related deaths in the Western Isles last year but urged caution around the figures.

Gordon Jamieson, chair of the Outer Hebrides Alcohol and Drug Partnership and chief executive of NHS Western Isles, vowed to keep working closely with other partners at all stages from prevention to intervention and harm reduction to recovery.

Mr Jamieson was responding to the report published last week. For a previous article on welovestornoway with more on that report, click here.

Addressing the report’s findings, Mr Jamieson said: “We welcome the publication of the 2025 National Drug-Related Deaths statistics and note that no drug-related deaths were recorded in the Western Isles during that year.

“While any reduction in drug-related harm is encouraging, it is important to view figures for smaller populations with caution, as annual numbers can fluctuate significantly.

“Every drug-related death is a tragedy, affecting families, friends and communities. Across the Western Isles, partners remain committed to preventing harm and supporting individuals affected by drug and alcohol use.

“Through the work of the Outer Hebrides Alcohol and Drug Partnership, NHS Western Isles, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Police Scotland and our third sector partners continue to work closely together to provide prevention, treatment, recovery and harm reduction services. This includes supporting people at an early stage, improving access to services and helping individuals sustain recovery within their communities.”

Mr Jamieson added: “While the 2025 figures are positive, we recognise that the underlying causes of substance misuse are complex and often linked to wider issues such as poverty, trauma, mental ill health and social inequality. We therefore remain focused on continuing our collaborative efforts to reduce harm, improve outcomes and prevent future deaths.

“We extend our thoughts to all those affected by drug-related harm, both locally and across Scotland.”