Systematically collected information used to understand patterns of substance use, substance use disorders, treatment needs, and drug market dynamics. This may include epidemiological data, service utilisation records, treatment outcomes, law enforcement intelligence, and public health surveillance. Data helps identify emerging trends, assess the effectiveness of prevention and treatment programmes, monitor trafficking and market activity, and guide evidence-informed policy and decision-making. Reliable data systems are essential for improving responses to substance use and ensuring that interventions are targeted, effective, and responsive to population needs.
Data
The Role of Faith Communities in Addressing Substance Use and Crime – Reading List (Part 2)
In this second reading list, we continue exploring the growing evidence on the role and contribution of faith communities and faith-based organisations in addressing substance use and crime, with a particular focus on treatment engagement...
Trends in the Prevalence and Severity of Alcohol and Cannabis Use Disorders Among US Adults
Abstract Importance The number of US adults with alcohol use disorder (AUD) has declined, whereas the number with cannabis use disorder (CUD) has increased. Little is known about how changes in the prevalence and severity of AUD and CUD...
Drug Diversion Schemes Linked to Lower Reoffending Rates, New Research Finds
New research examining more than 62,000 criminal incidents across 13 police forces in England found that police-led drug diversion schemes are associated with significantly lower reoffending rates than traditional prosecution for drug...
Do Drug Diversion Schemes Work? Insights from the Thames Valley Police Drugs Diversion Pilot
This paper examines the development and early outcomes of the Thames Valley Police Drugs Diversion Pilot in West Berkshire, which offers people found in possession of drugs an opportunity to engage with treatment rather than receive a...
The introduction of drug Arrest Referral schemes in London: A partnership between drug services and the police
Arrest Referral (AR) schemes in London were established to connect people who use drugs with treatment services at the point of arrest through collaboration between police and drug service providers. Based on interviews with police officers...
The Hidden Economic Cost of Substance Use
Featuring:
Assessment of the threat posed by highly potent synthetic opioids in Europe
This threat assessment examines the potential risks posed by highly potent synthetic opioids (HPSOs) in Europe over the next two years. Drawing on early warning data, forensic and clinical evidence, and expert input, the report explores how...
Heroin Trafficking Along the Northern and Southern Routes: Emerging Trends and Strategic Implications
This paper examines how heroin trafficking routes from Afghanistan into Europe have evolved following the Taliban's return to power in 2021. It explores the changing dynamics of the northern and southern trafficking routes, highlighting how...
Association Between Religiosity and Spirituality and Cocaine Use: A Systematic Review
This systematic review examines the association between religiosity, spirituality, and cocaine use by analysing findings from 20 observational studies involving adults and adolescents. Most studies found that higher levels of religiosity...
Religion, Crime, and Criminal Justice
This chapter reviews the evidence on the relationship between religion, crime, and the criminal justice system. It highlights a growing body of research showing a consistent inverse association between religiosity and criminal behaviour...