Coronavirus (COVID-19): Drug Deaths Taskforce update

To members and stakeholders

This short note is intended to update on the operations of the DDTF within the context of current COVID-19 working environment.

Obviously, our group’s ways of working, like any other group, has been impacted – firstly by the availability of members involved in immediate, priority, and practical issues concerning the delivery of health and care provision for the vulnerable; and secondly by avoidance of face to face meetings in the working groups and forums which had been a large part of our normal practice.

We remain committed to pursuing the remit of the Taskforce, which itself has an urgency, but we are now exploring options to continue our evidence and analysis work through online means, as well as liaising with groups developing and delivering change, for as long as the current circumstances dictate. We will seek to maintain Taskforce momentum wherever possible, so I ask members to please stay in touch about messages relating to these and respond as required.

And for all, please stay safe and well. With your goodwill and continued commitment, we can all still contribute to a compassionate and thriving-again Scotland.

Catriona Matheson
DDTF Chair