Speaking at the UK Drug Workers Forum in York yesterday, Paul Hayes said:

“The last few weeks have seen the publication of two positive reports of the effectiveness of drug treatment in England. The Lancet reported on the very significant reduction in drug use and associated harms whilst individuals are in treatment and The National Drug Evidence Centre at the University of Manchester reported that the number of people successfully discharged from treatment, free of their drug of dependency and no longer in receipt of medication, had more than doubled over the past three years to 25,000 in 2008/09.

“This is hugely encouraging and is a massive endorsement of the value of investing in drug treatment for individuals and communities. Drug treatment providers, service users, their families and communities should be congratulated on these achievements.

“It is very welcome that the media is now beginning to recognize the success of drug treatment as this gives further support to those already in treatment, encourages individuals outside treatment to seek help, and contributes to the building of a political consensus in support of continued investment in the challenging financial times ahead.

“The NTA will continue to advocate a balanced treatment system, offering abstinence and maintenance options in residential and community settings, and based on clinical evidence rather than belief.”