27th January 2021
The voices and opinions of people who are receiving medication for their drug problem are being sought for a study which will help inform the delivery of the new Medication Assisted Treatment Standards for Scotland.
The study, carried out by Scottish Drugs Forum in collaboration with the Scottish Drug Deaths Taskforce, is seeking to speak to people in six health board areas who have started or re-engaged with a service in the last 18 months and are receiving Medication Assisted Treatment.
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is otherwise known as Opiate Substitution Treatment (OST) or Opiate Replacement Treatment (ORT) and includes medicines like methadone and buprenorphine.
The MAT Standards for Scotland will seek to ensure that all people who receive medication for their drug problem will receive quick access to treatment and a good quality and empowering experience, regardless of which service they access or where they are in the country.
The aim of the study is to understand the experiences of people who are currently using services to inform how the MAT standards for Scotland can be successfully implemented and make a positive impact on the lives of people who require support and treatment for their drug problems. It will also seek to provide a baseline understanding of current practice.
Interviews will be carried out over the phone with a trained peer researcher and information shared will be kept confidential.
People who take part will receive a £10 shopping voucher as a token of appreciation for sharing their time and experiences.
We are looking for people who:
– Live in Grampian, Ayrshire and Arran, Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lanarkshire, Lothian or Tayside
– Are receiving medication for a drug problem, such as methadone or buprenorphine
– Have started or re-engaged with a service in the last 18 months
– Are 18 years or older
If you or someone you know would like to take part or would like further information, please contact Joan Walsh, SDF’s National User Involvement Officer at joanw@sdf.org.uk or call/text 07570683063.