As International Overdose Awareness Day marks its 25th anniversary, the city’s alcohol and drug support service is increasing its own work to prevent overdose deaths while calling on people across Leeds to take action, carry naloxone, and help save lives.

86 drug related deaths were registered in Leeds in 2024 according to the latest ONS data.

For 25 years, International Overdose Awareness Day has brought together communities around the world to remember those who have died from overdose and to promote action that can prevent future deaths. This year’s campaign highlights a stark reality: while overdose continues to affect people and communities across the UK, these deaths are often preventable.

Forward Leeds Harm Reduction Lead Russell Slater said:

“Overdose continues to affect everyone in this city, but it doesn’t have to. There are effective ways to reduce risk and save lives. By talking openly about overdose, learning from one another, and treating everyone with kindness and respect, we will prevent needless deaths and build safer, healthier communities.”

As part of this year’s awareness campaign, Forward Leeds is inviting a range of people from different backgrounds and communities to share short videos on social media explaining why they choose to carry naloxone.

Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that rapidly reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, providing valuable time while emergency services are on their way.

The campaign, titled, ‘Why I Carry Naloxone’, aims to highlight the personal reasons people choose to carry the medication, from lived experience to the reassurance of knowing they could save someone’s life.

A community event will take place in Park Square on Friday 28 August 2026, with Forward Leeds staff on site from 10am to 2.30pm offering free information, advice and support on drugs, alcohol and overdose prevention.

Everyone is welcome to attend, whether to remember a loved one, learn more about overdose prevention or find out about the support available in Leeds.

A memorial and minute’s silence will be held at 11am, providing an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose and stand alongside the families, friends and communities affected.

At 12:30pm, there will be a demonstration showing how to use naloxone.

Naloxone is now available free of charge from a range of pharmacies across Leeds, making it easier than ever for people to carry this vital medication and potentially save a life.

For more information including a list of locations you can get naloxone visit the Forward Leeds website forwardleeds.co.uk

 

This post is based on a press release issued by Forward Leeds

Photo: Russell Slater holding two naloxone kits

 

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