South Lanarkshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership (SLADP) hosted the summit that brought together a wide range of partners and services to address the growing challenges of substance and alcohol use in the community.

The event underscored the vital role of collaboration in tackling these complex issues and showcased the strong support network available within the region.

Chair of the Social Work Resources Committee, Councillor Margaret Walker, said: “What underpins the partnership approach is the inclusion of those with lived experience, such as peer support workers who have themselves navigated the challenges of addiction and recovery.

“Combining that empathy and insight with the expertise of traditional services is helping us shape collective responses that are deeply personal and profoundly effective.”

Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “This event has shown the incredible impact we can make when we come together.

“By bringing our shared knowledge and expertise into this innovative space, we are creating lasting, sustainable support systems for individuals and communities facing the challenges of substance and alcohol misuse.

“We are committed to using the evidence and our learning of what works to do our best to help individuals, families and communities.”

The event, which welcomed attendees from local committees, community groups, and service providers, showcased the numerous support and recovery services available to individuals, families, and communities in South Lanarkshire. The focus of day was to highlight the collaborative work being done to reduce the harms caused by alcohol and drug use.

Participants were given an overview of the support available, including specialised services for families, young people, and those seeking recovery.  The proceedings emphasised the importance of partnership in providing long-term solutions to real-world challenges.