International Overdose Awareness Day 2026: Events across Grampian to Highlight Overdose Prevention, Remembrance and Support

Partners across Grampian are supporting International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) today (Monday 31 August) with a programme of remembrance, awareness and overdose prevention activities. Led by Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray Alcohol and Drug Partnerships, alongside Alcohol and Drugs Action, Aberdeen in Recovery and Quarriers Arrows Service, the day will remember lives lost, raise awareness of overdose prevention and highlight the support available across the region.

This year's theme, "25 Years On. Still Needed." marks the 25th anniversary of the global campaign and highlights the continuing need to prevent overdose-related harm, save lives and reduce stigma.

John Mooney, Public Health Consultant for NHS Grampian said: "Twenty-five years on from the first International Overdose Awareness Day, the message remains as important as ever. The theme, '25 Years On. Still Needed.' reminds us that while progress has been made, there is still more to do to prevent overdose-related harm and support those affected by substance use.

"Today is an opportunity to remember those we have lost, support families and communities, and highlight the actions that can help save lives. Across Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire and Moray, partners continue to work together to reduce stigma, improve access to naloxone and support services, and help more people recognise and respond to an overdose emergency. By working together, we can prevent harm, save lives and ensure people get the help they need."

Whilst the final data relating to drug deaths in 2025 has yet to be published, the latest available data for 2024 shows that 1,017 people in Scotland lost their lives to overdose. The comparable data for Grampian, shows that 83 people died from drug related causes in 2024.

In Aberdeen City, community partners will host information stands at locations including NESCOL, the former Marks & Spencer site and The Nook, where people can access information on local support and recovery services, overdose prevention advice and naloxone training. Aberdeen in Recovery will deliver a programme of activities throughout the day, including advocacy support, creative workshops, wellbeing sessions and peer support opportunities. The day will culminate with a city-centre Remembrance Walk and Marischal College being illuminated in purple to mark International Overdose Awareness Day.

In Aberdeenshire, Step In drug and alcohol services in Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Banff and Inverurie will offer information on local support services, overdose prevention advice and naloxone training. Fraserburgh will also host a support and information stall, a Walk of Remembrance, a moment of reflection at a remembrance tree and a community gathering at Fraserburgh Baptist Church.

In Moray, Arrows will provide harm reduction information, naloxone training and a remembrance tree, while Butterflies Family Support Network will host a remembrance and support gathering for families and friends affected by substance use, bereavement and loss, including a flower tribute at Lossie Bridge and an opportunity for people to come together for peer support and reflection

Anyone can help prevent overdose-related harm by learning about overdose prevention, carrying naloxone and knowing where to access support.

Further information about local events, overdose prevention, naloxone, harm reduction and support services is available at: International Overdose Awareness Day