Views sought on Bill which would give people with drug and alcohol addiction the right to receive treatment in law

The Right to Addiction Recovery (Scotland) Bill was introduced in the Scottish Parliament on 15 May 2024 by Douglas Ross MSP.

The Bill would provide people who have been diagnosed by a health professional as addicted to either alcohol or drugs, or both, to be provided with treatment. Those diagnosed would have a say in what treatment they receive and the treatment would be made available to them within three weeks of treatment diagnosis.

If a health professional decided no treatment is appropriate, or that the treatment which the person wants is not appropriate, then they must inform the individual in writing why this is the case.

Individuals could seek a second opinion from a different health professional if they did not agree with the original decision.

Speaking as the call for views was launched, Clare Haughey MSP, Convener of the Health, Social Care and Sport Committee, said:

“The tragic impact of alcohol and drug addiction is clear and is an issue this Committee takes extremely seriously.

“We’re keen to hear views on whether people agree with the purpose and extent of the Bill and whether it will help those facing drug and alcohol addiction.  We want to know what the key advantages and/or disadvantages are of placing this right to receive treatment, for people with drug and alcohol addiction, in law.

“We also want to hear views on the proposed procedure for determining treatment, and timescales for providing treatment.

“We want to hear from individuals, charities and support groups who work in this area, health organisations, local and national government, the legal sector and academics. We look forward to hearing your views.”

The call for views closes on 20 December.