Drugs warning after cluster of deaths in Inverclyde

Support for drug users is available at the Wellpark Centre in Greenock

A cluster of recent deaths in Inverclyde could potentially be linked to illicit drugs, the local health board has said.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said it had been made aware of the cluster and investigations are under way.

Neither the health board or the police have confirmed the exact number of deaths.

However, Police Scotland said that inquiries were ongoing into a "number of deaths".

A group of health experts is now meeting to assess the situation and minimise the risk of further deaths.

Harm reduction advice has also been issued and people are asked to contact their local GP about further support.

A spokesman for Inverclyde Health and Social Care Partnership said: "While the cause of these deaths have not yet been established, we would nonetheless like to remind everyone who uses illicit drugs and their friends and families of the measures they can take to minimise the risk of drug deaths or overdoses.

"We would urge anyone who knows someone who takes illicit drugs to pass the message on to them to be extremely cautious and to follow this advice."

The partnership said it was engaging directly with the community through its established networks in Inverclyde and partner organisations.

'Complex' issue

The spokesman added: "We will continue to work closely with those groups in Inverclyde and across Greater Glasgow and Clyde to ensure we're able to care for people within this vulnerable community."

Support is also being made available at Inverclyde Alcohol and Drug Recovery Service and Needle Exchange, both at the Wellpark Centre in Greenock, and Moving On Inverclyde at Kingston House in the town.

Det Sup Gerry McBride said police officers were working with partners to monitor the situation in Inverclyde.

"Police Scotland recognises that drugs are a significant source of harm, bringing misery to individuals, families and wider communities," he said.

"Along with our partners, we continue to try and tackle what is a complex public health issue and provide holistic support to those affected."