PHA Launch New Substance Use Agenda Consultation

The public has been asked to help shape Northern Ireland's substance use agenda for the next four years, by responding to a new Public Health Agency (PHA) consultation.

The 12-week consultation on the Substance Use Strategic Commissioning and Implementation Plan, in partnership with the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG), runs until Friday 24 November, with opportunities to have your voice heard through an online survey.

Kevin Bailey, Regional Lead for Drugs and Alcohol at the PHA, said: "Substance use, whether it be alcohol or drugs, is sadly all too common and something that can affect individuals, families and communities.

"Given the impact substance use can have, the PHA recognises how important it is to regularly review services that are in place to provide support, and how essential it is to listen to the views of people in our communities, organisations and wider stakeholders to ensure those services deliver effective support for those who need it.

"The views submitted to the consultation will help shape the future plans and actions to address the issues of substance use in Northern Ireland."

Details of the consultation and how to fill out the survey are available at consultations2.nidirect.gov.uk/hsc/suscipc/ where there is also information if access to the consultation is required in any other formats.

The consultation is seeking views on the Substance Use Strategic Commissioning and Implementation Plan. The aim of this plan is to deliver on the vision outlined in the Department of Health’s Substance Use Strategy, details of which can be found at health-ni.gov.uk.

Kevin continued: "The 12-week consultation is a valuable way to gather the views of individuals directly affected by substance use, understand their needs and determine how the Substance Use Strategy actions for which the PHA is responsible could be designed and delivered to support those in need.

"We would encourage anyone who has been impacted by substance use to have their voice heard on this important issue and to help us best support individuals, families and communities in need of these services in the future."

Views are being sought on each of the eight strategic priority areas that are identified in the Substance Use Strategic Commissioning and Implementation Plan which include: prevention and early intervention; pathways of care and models of support; trauma-informed system; family support; stigma; workforce development; digital innovation; and data and research.