Evidence & research
Where our information comes from
This site is an information and signposting resource. It summarises authoritative UK sources and points you to them, rather than replacing them.
Primary sources
Bodies we draw on
NHS (nhs.uk) and NHS inform (Scotland)
Health information, symptoms, treatment routes and service finders.
Talk to FRANK
UK Government drug information and local support directory.
NICE
Clinical guidance on alcohol-use disorders, drug misuse and medicines associated with dependence.
UK clinical guidelines on drug misuse and dependence
Treatment and prescribing practice for drug dependence in the UK.
UKHSA and Public Health Scotland / Wales / NI
Blood-borne viruses, harm-reduction provision and population health information.
Royal Pharmaceutical Society and General Pharmaceutical Council
Pharmacy professional standards and practice guidance.
Local health boards and Alcohol & Drug Partnerships
Local service specifications, access arrangements and referral routes.
Our sourcing rules
What we will and won't publish
- We do not publish statistics, prevalence figures or research findings without an attributable source.
- We do not invent opening hours, phone numbers, eligibility criteria or referral rules. If we have not verified it, we say so and tell you to contact the service.
- We summarise clinical guidance in plain language and always name the guidance to consult for detail.
- Every substance page and service listing carries a review date and a next-review date.
- Corrections from services, clinicians and members of the public are welcomed and acted on.
- We do not provide diagnosis, dosing advice, or instructions for using substances.