Evaluation of the National Mission on Drug Deaths frontline staff survey

This publication presents findings from a 2025 online survey of staff working in frontline alcohol and drug services in Scotland. This is a short follow-up survey to a longer earlier survey of staff in frontline alcohol and drug services in 2023. This report compares the 2023 and 2025 responses to 12 statements about staff's experience of working in frontline alcohol and drug services. 

The survey provides some evidence which suggests that the experience may have improved for some staff. However, the survey findings also suggest that levels of pressure and risk of burnout remain high in the sector. Respondents also continue to highlight key gaps in the support they can offer to individuals. They point to challenges in helping people access mental health support; support for alcohol, non-opioid or polysubstance use; and holistic recovery support.