Combating drug abuse in London

Drugs in London

The good news is that drug use among young people is lower in London than the national average. On top of this, drug use among young Londoners seems to be declining.

However, we do face a problem with drug abuse, which causes other health problems. For example, drug users who inject are more likely to contract conditions such as hepatitis C and HIV. The number of current and former injecting drug users with Hepatitis C and HIV continues to be higher in London than other parts of the UK.

What we are doing to tackle London's drug problem

A specific London response to tackling drugs is the Greater London Alcohol and Drugs Alliance. Set up in 2002, this is a partnership of expert organisations providing up-to-date research and action on drugs in the capital.

The Mayor's draft Health Inequalities Strategy sets out a framework to tackle drug related harm, such as supporting recovery through responsible financial support and pathways to employment in addition to lobbying for equitable access to treatment.

Publications

Health Inequality Strategy Publications

Draft Health Inequalities Strategy

Draft Health Inequalities Strategy summary

Assembly response to Draft Health Inequalities Strategy

Living Well in London: Health Inequalities Strategy

GLA Highs and Lows briefing update

GLADA – Information briefing for London faith communities LINK_UPDATE_HERE