Issue details

DEWS contributes to the GM ambition to reduce drug related deaths and
drug related harm as described below.

DEWS provides a valuable resource for professionals to report incidents relating to the use of drugs, seek specialist knowledge and support, and establish incidents or patterns relating to particular problem substances (e.g. adulterated or incorrectly identified batches in circulation).

DEWS provides each Greater Manchester local authority area with a Local Drug Information System (LDIS) where professionals from a range of organisations such as police, schools, hospitals, substance misuse services, and youth services, can submit and receive reports of incidents relating to drugs, emerging drugs, and changes to the local market.

DEWS enables the review of any significant incidents or developments relating to drugs and provides support ranging from targeted information to professionals/drug users to general public announcements. These are co-ordinated prior to release with relevant GM/local organisations such as GMCA, police, local authority, and health services.

The initial period of the contract has been provided efficiently and effectively by Linnell Communications and has contributed significantly to drugs intelligence across GM.