Rise in suspected drug-related deaths

New data shows a significant rise in the number of suspected drug-related deaths across the Forth Valley.

Figures from a Police Scotland report shows 39 people died due to drugs in the first half of 2025.

15 deaths were recorded between January and June last year.

The figures are being discussed by the local authority today.

12 drug-related deaths have been recorded by Police Scotland in the first six months of 2025.

Between January and June 2024, 5 people in Stirling died due to drugs.

49 people died due to drugs across the whole of 2024 in Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling

Speaking when Scotland's drug-related death figures were published last month, Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Maree Todd said ‘there is still work to be done':

“My heartfelt condolences go to all those affected by the loss of a loved one through drugs.

“It is welcome that we have seen progress with the number of deaths at the lowest level since 2017, but I know there is still work to be done and we will continue to do everything we can to save and improve lives.

“This is particularly true as we face new threats from highly dangerous synthetic opioids like nitazenes, which further raise the risk of overdose and death.

“That is why we are providing record levels of funding for drugs and alcohol programmes and widening access to treatment, residential rehabilitation and life-saving naloxone. We have also supported and funded the opening of the UK’s first Safer Drug Consumption Facility and are working at pace to deliver drug-checking facilities.

“The spread of grassroots support, enhanced by our funding of more than 300 organisations and projects, has also made a difference on the ground. However, we will always want to do more and will continue to work hard to adapt to new patterns of consumption and demand to direct support where it is most needed.”