02/06/2026
More than 3,600 residents in Wirral are now getting support for drug and alcohol problems – the highest number ever recorded locally.
A new report, due to be presented to the Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee on 9 June 2026, shows real progress in helping people stay safe, recover and rebuild their lives.
The latest figures show:
➡️ 3,663 people currently in treatment
➡️ 955 people completed treatment successfully last year
➡️ 445 people moved into work, education or volunteering
➡️ 86% stayed in treatment for at least 12 weeks, above the national average of 82%
There is also encouraging progress in reducing harm. Drug-related deaths are declining, and more than 1,500 naloxone kits have been given out to help prevent overdoses and save lives.
This work is commissioned and led by Wirral Council and delivered with a wide range of partners through the Wirral Drugs Strategy, a long-term plan that brings together health services, the council, police and community organisations to reduce harm, support recovery and make communities safer.
Strong partnership working is making a difference in other areas too. Around 70-80% of people leaving prison are now engaging with treatment within three weeks, significantly higher than the national average of 56%.
While there is a lot to be proud of, the update is clear that there is more to do.
The report sets out plans to reach more people who are not yet in treatment and to strengthen support for newer drug trends, such as ketamine. It also confirms that work will continue to prevent harm and save lives, including providing life-saving naloxone.