Fifteen children in Dumfries and Galloway lost a parent to a drug death in 2021.
NHS Dumfries and Galloway health board members have been told more needs to be done to support young people who suffer the death of a parent through drug use.
In total there were 35 drug deaths which is the highest recorded for the region in the most up to date figures.
The issue was highlighted as the NHS and local authority discuss a new plan for children services in Dumfries and Galloway.
Darren Little, children’s services manager, said: “In Dumfries and Galloway in 2021 there were 35 drug related deaths, the highest recorded for the region; 15 children lost a parent in 2021 due to a drug death.
“Dumfries and Galloway Strategic Drug Death Group have highlighted that more should be done to support bereaved families including children, after a drug death.
“Police Scotland have already put processes in place to engage with families for a period of time post a suspected drug death, however there is still more that can be done in particular with supporting children and young people who have been impacted by the death of a loved one.
“Alcohol and Drug Partnerships need to ensure a whole family approach is taken to reduce harm from drugs and alcohol.
“Work is under way with Dumfries and Galloway Children and Families Social Work to ensure families affected by drugs and alcohol are supported.
“The third sector also play a crucial role in providing one-to-one support for families, with a dedicated service already in
existence.
“Key stakeholders across the region, including partners from children’s services, third sector, health, education and other services will be included as part of the engagement exercise to ensure links to other plans are joined up, and that as a region we are delivering the appropriate services for our families.”
