Link Between Drug Abuse and Homelessness in London

The complex relationship between drug misuse and homelessness in London requires a multifaceted approach to effectively address the challenges involved. The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) has recommended that housing authorities, local councils, and health services collaborate to adopt tailored approaches for tackling drug misuse among the homeless population. This is crucial because, in 2017, 32% of all deaths among homeless individuals in England were attributed to drug poisoning, a stark contrast to the 1% in the general population.

High Levels of Drug Dependence

A survey conducted by Home and Dry in the London area revealed critical insights into the high level of drug use among the homeless. Astonishingly, 83% of the participants reported using drugs (excluding alcohol) in the last month. Commonly used substances included cannabis, alcohol, and heroin, with nearly half of the respondents admitting to heroin use. This high level of drug use is also a significant factor in homelessness, with two-thirds of participants citing substance use as a reason for becoming homeless initially.

Polydrug use is a prevalent issue, with many homeless individuals using three to four different drugs in the last month, notably heroin and crack. This indicates a need for comprehensive treatment approaches, as most drug-dependent participants reported using drug services mainly for needle exchanges, not for treatment programs. This gap in service uptake is more pronounced for alcohol-dependent individuals, where only a third had accessed alcohol services in the past year.

The survey also revealed that heroin use is widespread, with two in five participants having injected a drug in the month preceding the survey. A significant proportion had injected heroin, highlighting the critical need for targeted harm reduction and treatment services.

Financially, the majority of the homeless population in London spends most of their resources on drugs and alcohol, reflecting the entrenchment of substance use within this demographic.

Drug and Homeless Cycle

The cycle of homelessness and drug use is particularly worrisome. The longer an individual remains homeless, the higher the likelihood of developing drug dependency, further exacerbating their homelessness.

That over half of homeless people first try heroin after they have become homeless, or that 72% of homeless people first try crack whilst sleeping rough on the streets highlights the risks rough sleepers face.

Drug and alcohol dependency also increases the likelihood of being excluded from services, with alcohol being the most significant contributor to service exclusion.

Social Exclusion

Homeless individuals using drugs often face social disconnection and heightened personal safety risks. They are disproportionately affected by serious bacterial infections and high levels of HIV and hepatitis C due to drug use. To effectively address these issues, local services must adopt evidence-based approaches that integrate substance use, mental health, and homelessness services. This includes outreach programs, peer mentorship, and ensuring that these individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Involving people with experience of homelessness and substance use in designing and delivering these services is also crucial for creating effective and empathetic solutions.

Tackling the issue of drug misuse among the homeless in London requires a collaborative and comprehensive approach that addresses both the immediate needs and the underlying causes of homelessness and substance dependency.

Get help?

At Alcohol Rehab London we can help you find you way into rehabilitation before things spiral out of control. If you need help or advice for drug or alcohol addictions in London please contact us on 02038242842.