The time is right to look at new ways of reducing mortality among people who use illicit drugs. Across the UK, we are seeing record levels of drug-related deaths. These deaths often occur among people who use heroin, as well as alcohol and tobacco. The appearance of synthetic opioids like fentanyl and carfentanil in the UK drug markets threatens to cause even more harm. Many of the most vulnerable people are not well served by existing models of treatment. So we need new ways of engaging these people in services that can save their lives. The need for drug consumption rooms is urgent.

DCRs are now a viable policy option and serious consideration should be given to their introduction.