This report presents information on drug-related deaths, both of addicts and non–addicts, that occurred during 2011 and for which coronial inquests and similar formal investigations have been completed. Its main purpose is to provide an analytical summary of data received and provide high-quality and consistent surveillance, and to detect and identify emerging trends and issues in respect of this phenomenon. In this way, it contributes to the reduction and prevention of drug-related deaths in the UK due to the misuse of both licit and illicit drugs.

The findings show a decrease in the number of deaths in 2011 reported directly to np-SAD by Coroners from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Islands when compared to the number reported in last year’s report. Death notifications recorded by the Scottish Police also decreased. Part of the fall in Coroners’ notifications may be attributed to a slightly lower notification rate, and partly to a fall in actual fatalities. The latter would be in line with official statistics which showed a fall in deaths registered in 2011.

As in the previous fifteen years, the statistics in this report are intended to inform authorities at the local, regional and national levels, as well as health professionals and the general public, about the serious consequences of drug abuse, especially polydrug use.

The report also provides a number of indications of changes in patterns of drug abuse, trends over time, and emerging issues from our surveillance activities so that appropriate and timely action can be taken. This programme owes its existence to the commitment and dedication that Professor Ghodse demonstrated, and we can only hope and trust that this excellent work continues as a memorial to him.