More than 3,600 residents supported as Wirral sees record progress in recovery services
More people in Wirral are getting the help they need to recover from drug and alcohol problems, with record numbers in treatment, more people rebuilding their lives, and more lives being saved – Councillors are set to be told.
The latest annual update on the Wirral Drugs Strategy, due to be presented to the Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee on 9 June 2026, is showing strong progress in helping residents stay safe and recover from drug and alcohol problems.
A record 3,663 people are now in treatment across Wirral, meaning more residents are reaching out and getting support when they need it with easy and quick access to treatment.
Last year:
- 955 people completed treatment successfully
- 445 people moved into work, education or volunteering
- 86% of people stayed in treatment for at least 12 weeks, higher than the national average of 82%
There has also been real progress in keeping people safe:
- Drug-related deaths are declining
- Over 1,500 naloxone kits were given out to help prevent overdoses
This work is commissioned and led by Wirral Council and local partners through the Wirral Drugs Strategy, a long-term plan that brings together health services, the council, police and community groups to reduce harm, support recovery and make communities safer.
The update also highlights strong partnership work, including helping people leaving prison get back on track, with around 70–80% now engaging with treatment within three weeks, compared to the national average of 56%, with monthly figures changing slightly but staying within this range.
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.
