Frustrating Delay for Bristol Police in Carrying Opioid Overdose Antidote

Bristol: There’s been a frustrating hold-up for police in Bristol. They were set to start training officers to carry naloxone, the antidote for opioid overdoses. But health and safety worries have put the brakes on that plan.

Naloxone can save lives by reversing the effects of an overdose until help arrives. It’s easy to use, either with a syringe or a nasal spray. Sadly, drug-related deaths are climbing in Bristol, just like in many big cities.

Superintendent Mark Runacres, the police commander, mentioned that they were among the first to let officers carry naloxone voluntarily. But now, the health and safety board is causing delays. They’re worried about liability and whether officers are trained to handle other emergencies too.

Runacres said it’s been a real headache. The board wants to ensure that officers know they can’t just rely on naloxone. They need to be ready for other health interventions as well. He’s confident that once they get the board’s approval, training will kick back into gear.

Currently, about 200 officers in Avon and Somerset have naloxone. Runacres believes that number will grow once training resumes. Other police forces are already on board, easing some of the safety concerns.

He reassured that those already trained can still use naloxone. It’s just the new training that’s on hold. The number of drug-related deaths in Bristol is concerning, with 59 reported in 2023.

Julie Northcott from the council noted that Bristol’s drug death rates are rising, but they’re not the worst compared to other cities. Last year, around 4,000 adults sought treatment for drug issues, and that number is climbing.

Bristol has a high number of opiate users, which adds to the risk. Last year, over 1,000 drug offenses were recorded, including many for cannabis possession. The situation is serious, and the community is hoping for a swift resolution to the training delays.