It is evident that there are significant challenges that specifically affect women who use drugs. While women are not a homogenous group and not all women who use drugs face the same issues it is apparent that, despite the very best efforts of workers in the field, too often the needs of women are not met.

The evidence is clear that further action is required to support women who use drugs, and their families. When considering and implementing the recommendations of the working group, local need and what is already available in terms of local service provision must be taken into account. Some areas are already providing high quality support for women. However, this is not happening across the country and that must be tackled with a needs based approach. The recommendations contained within this report will be of interest, and have implications for a wide range of organisations. We would urge all those working in the sector, and in relevant Scottish Government policy areas, to read the report and consider their role in implementing the recommendations.

[Note, the SDD Taskforce website also has three related podcasts]