Increase in addiction support spending

There has been an increase in the amount of money spent on support for patients with alcohol and drug addiction in the Forth Valley.

Figures from a Freedom of Information request by Central FM News shows more than £8 million was spent in the twelve months to September by NHS Forth Valley.

That's up from £7.8 million the year before.

62 people died due to drugs in 2023 in Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling.

Meanwhile, 66 people lost their life due to alcohol in the Forth Valley last year.

Last week, a report by the Accounts Commission said people in need of support are facing "barriers".