Currently there is one group which meets periodically to converse and discuss important issues on drug policy (see members section). The aim however is to encourage multiple Scottish Drug Policy Conversations throughout Scotland. Using this website as a hub for disseminating conversation outcomes we welcome all contributions from all communities. Please use the contact form to enquire about how to start your own conversation.
In Brief:
The Scottish Drugs Policy Conversation (SDPC) is a space for people with varied viewpoints and different experiences of drugs and drugs policy who wish to learn from this diversity, and influence future developments within Scotland.
More Broadly:
SDPC facilitates discussion among people who work in the drugs arena or are affected by it. Its objective is to examine different opinions and experience, research findings, local and global developments in drug policy and the ever changing picture of drug use, risk and harm.
SDPC was set up following discussion between policy stakeholders identifying three underlying factors:
(i) The need to examine the effectiveness of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, its differential impact that negatively impacts outcomes for some groups, and the experiences of different nations in relation to legislative and drug policy changes;
(ii) The context of debate about political and constitutional change and the scope for an autonomous policy on drugs in Scotland.
(iii) The benefits of deliberative discussion and public engagement to inform social policy and decision-making.
SDPC is commited to respectful dialogue and open-minded reflection on options for improving Scottish drugs policy by engaging with stakeholders and the wider public.
