This year's theme, "25 Years On - Still Needed", reflects the ongoing importance of overdose prevention, harm reduction education and life-saving interventions in communities around the world.
In Walsall, The Beacon (Change Grow Live), commissioned by the council’s Public Health team, continues to support people experiencing challenges with drugs or alcohol. The service helps people access treatment, stay safe, improve their health and wellbeing, and move towards recovery.
A key part of this support is the distribution of naloxone, a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose when administered quickly. Over the last year, 86% of opiate users in treatment received a naloxone kit, which is above the regional average (82%) and national average (81%).
Demand for support also remains strong, with 2,067 adults accessing drug and alcohol treatment services in the 12 months to May 2026, including 1,054 people receiving support for heroin and/or crack cocaine use.
This year has also seen the introduction of rapid prescribing at The Beacon, enabling most people seeking help with opioid use to be assessed and prescribed treatment on the same day. The service has proved popular and is helping people access support quickly when they are ready to take that step.
“ International Overdose Awareness Day is a chance to remember those we’ve lost, raise awareness of overdose prevention, harm reduction education, and highlight the support that is available in Walsall. We are committed to supporting people to access help, reducing barriers and raising awareness of life-saving interventions such as naloxone. Every conversation, every intervention and every person supported into treatment can make a difference. “
Councillor Matt Eason, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council
International Overdose Awareness Day is also an opportunity to encourage understanding and challenge the stigma that can sometimes prevent people from seeking support.
Many people who need support for drug or alcohol use may worry about being judged or misunderstood. This can make it harder to ask for help. Local partners are encouraging residents to take a compassionate approach, recognising that treatment and recovery are more successful when people feel supported, respected and able to access services without fear of judgement.
“ Overdose awareness isn't just about responding in an emergency. It's about helping people stay safe, reducing harm and connecting them with support. Our naloxone peer to peer training and distribution, along with the rapid prescribing service is making it easier for people to get help when they need it. We encourage anyone who is concerned about their own drug use, or that of a friend or family member, to reach out and find out what support is available. “
Anne Brunozzi, Service Manager for The Beacon
Change Grow Live
To mark the awareness day, The Beacon will be hosting a series of community sessions focused on overdose prevention, naloxone awareness and available support services:
The Beacon provides free and confidential support for individuals and families experiencing drug and alcohol use challenges. Residents can refer themselves, or professionals can refer clients to the service online via the Change Grow Live website. Anyone interested in learning more about naloxone, overdose awareness or local treatment services can call 01922 669840 or email thebeacon.walsall@cgl.org.uk.
