‘Dramatic rise’ in drug-related deaths, says National Family Support Network

There has been a “dramatic rise” in the number of families traumatised by the loss of a loved one from drug use, a support group has said.

The National Family Support Network said many members of these families “cannot mourn” as they may feel a “sense of shame”, either because of the way their loved one passed away or as a result of the reaction of other people.

Speaking at its annual service of commemoration and hope, Sadie Grace, the organisation’s co-ordinator, also called on the Government to provide additional funding to assist these families.