Though research now shows unequivocally that drug treatment works and
that its benefits outweigh the costs (with one recent study estimating
a saving of UKP3 for every UKP1 spent), this is only true for services
which are properly delivered, by well-trained and supervised staff.

Together with the Kings Fund, we have developed a set of standards for
treatment providers which more than 40 treatment centres are committed
to implementing and against which their performance will be
independently audited.

Our concern is that whilst the latest report from the drug tsar calls
for an increase in the overall level of treatment, it makes no
stipulation about quality.

There is a clear danger of higher quality services being discriminated
against in favour of cheaper less effective alternatives - with
long-term costs for those with addictions, their families and the
public at large.

Simon Shepherd European Association for the Treatment of Addiction