The impact of COVID-19 on access to harm reduction, substance use treatment and recovery services in Scotland: a qualitative study

Abstract

Highlights COVID-19 lockdown had significant impacts on people who use drugs (PWUD). Access to harm reduction, treatment and recovery services was negatively affected. Positive developments included rapid treatment access and continuity of care. Loss of therapeutic relationships with services and peers was a challenge. Nimble, person-centred responses were welcome, but unequally distributed

Keywords

• COVID-19
• Substance use
• Harm reduction
• Opioid replacement treatment
• Recovery