DRUG DEATHS in Swindon have dropped slightly, bucking a national trend.

Official statistics released this week showed that there 19 drug poisoning deaths in the period 2014-16, down slightly from 21 in the years 2013-15.

Nationally, 3,744 deaths involving illegal and legal drug poisoning were registered in England and Wales last year. Two-thirds of these were classed as "drug misuse" deaths.

Then number of deaths from drug-related poisoning increased from 3,110 in 1999.

Swindon Borough Council welcomed the slight reduction in drug deaths in the town.

A spokesman said: “We have been working hard to try and reduce the risk and harm caused by drug misuse. The relevant agencies meet as a partnership to review all drug related deaths to try and learn lessons and spot trends so that we can intervene.

“We continue to provide Naloxone pens for high risk clients which can counteract the effect of overdose. All clients in treatment and the carers, together with some front-line staff, have been trained to use the pens safely.

“We also have an alert system in place so that intelligence regarding unusual or different substance supply can be shared with front line staff and service users.”

The Swindon figures, which were compiled by the Office for National Statistics, appear to show a slight increase in the number of women dying from drug poisoning.

In the period 2013-2015, two women died as a result of drug poisoning. In 2014-16 it was four.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesman said: “The numbers are very small but we will continue to monitor this closely and are working with our treatment provider to ensure that services are accessible to women.”

The council said that they were paying close attention to those with mental health and substance abuse problems. These people could be at greater risk from dying of drug poisoning, they said.

“The Substance Misuse Service and Mental Health Service are working closely together to improve the support given to these individuals.”

Rosanna O'Connor of Public Health England, said: "It is tragic that we are still seeing an increase in people dying from drug misuse, particularly among older heroin users.

"Many of these deaths can be explained as the 'Trainspotting' generation, often with poor physical and mental health, sadly losing their battle with long-term addiction to drugs."

For support with substance abuse, contact Swindon Drug and Alcohol Service on 01793 611870.