The Health Referral Scheme is a health-led response for people who are found in possession of drugs for personal use for the first time. The scheme is now live nationally and is supported by investment in HSE services to establish a SAOR network across all health regions. The scheme gives eligible people an opportunity to speak with a trained health professional, get advice and support, and be referred to further services if needed. It is designed to support people early, reduce harm, and help them make informed choices about their health and wellbeing.

What is the Health Referral Scheme?
The Health Referral Scheme allows An Garda Síochána to refer an eligible person to the Health Service Executive for a brief health intervention when that person is found in possession of drugs for personal use for the first time as an alternative to prosecution. This means the person can be offered support from health services at an early stage. The aim is to reduce the risks linked to drug use and help people access support before problems become more serious.

Who is the scheme for? 

1. An Garda Síochána identifies a person who may be eligible for the scheme and indicates an acceptance that they believe the substance they are in possession of is a controlled drug.
2. Should the person meet the criteria, they are referred to the HSE.
3. The HSE offers a SAOR brief intervention and attendance at which is voluntary.
4. If more support is needed, the person may be referred to addiction or other health services.
5. All information provided during the SAOR intervention will be kept confidential and will not be shared with third parties

All indivuals must be assessed for suitability for the scheme by the investigating member in consultation with their Superintendent or Inspector acting in that capacity. Where a decision is made not to offer a health referral, the rationale for this must be clearly recorded and will be communicated to the person. The rationale for decisions not to offer the scheme will be clearly recorded.

What health support will a person receive?
A person referred under the scheme is offered a SAOR brief intervention by the HSE. This is a short, supportive conversation with a trained health professional. It may include advice on drug use, information on reducing harm, and help to identify whether further support would be useful.If the person needs more help, the HSE can refer them to appropriate addiction, health or community supports.

What is a brief intervention? 
The brief intervention is provided by the HSE through the evidence based SAOR model. It stands for Support, Ask and Assess, Offer Assistance, and Refer. It uses a person-centred approach to have a conversation with a person about their substance use, and incorporates:

Support – supporting you to discuss your drug use
Ask and Assess – discussing the nature and extent of your drug use, and what you would like to do
Offer Assistance – discussing options with you
Refer – discussing support services available to you if you need them and making a referral to services for you if it’s something you want and if it’s appropriate for you.

Does this legalise drugs?
No. Possession of drugs remains a criminal offence. The Health Referral Scheme does not legalise drug use and it does not change how the State responds to drug dealing, drug-related intimidation or organised crime.

The scheme provides a health-led pathway for eligible first-time personal possession cases. It recognises that early support can help reduce harm and improve outcomes for individuals, families and communities.
The implementation of the Health Referral Scheme is a key deliverable in the National Drugs Strategy. The scheme aligns with the recommendation of the Citizens Assembly on Drug Use for a comprehensive health-led approach and also takes into account the recommendations of the Joint Committee on Drug Use.

The scheme reflects the Government’s commitment to treating drug use as a public health issue. It is intended to reduce stigma, encourage people to seek help, and support people before their drug use becomes more harmful. The scheme also supports a balanced approach. It allows health services to engage with people who may benefit from early intervention, while An Garda Síochána continues to focus on drug supply, organised crime and the harms caused by drug-related intimidation.

How will the scheme be monitored and evaluated?
The Health Referral Scheme will be monitored by the HRB throughout its first year. It will also be independently evaluated to ensure it meets its aims and to inform any further development of the scheme.

Further information - An Garda Síochána - Health Referral Scheme page