DRUG-related deaths soared to a record high in the Bradford district last year, figures have revealed.

And there are fears that the cost-of-living crisis and the legacy of the pandemic could lead to a further increase.

Data from the Office for National Statistics shows 53 deaths related to drug poisoning were registered in the district in 2021.

That was up from 36 the previous year – and the highest number since records began in 1993.

They were among 4,859 drug poisoning deaths registered across England and Wales last year – the ninth consecutive rise and also a record.

Of the drug deaths recorded nationally, 63 per cent were due to misuse, meaning they involved illegal drugs, or were a result of drug abuse or dependence.

Nuno Albuquerque – treatment lead for Oasis Recovery Bradford, a UK Addiction Treatment Group drug treatment facility – described the figures as "very saddening".

He added: "This shows that people in our community have had a really hard time coping with the pandemic and have taken to misusing drugs, even drugs prescribed by their GP, just to cope.

"Unfortunately, we also know that the local council has spent a million pounds less on treatment programmes for drug misuse and the prevention of drug misuse in Bradford district between 2019-20 and 2021-22."

Bradford Council says further investment will be made in drug and alcohol services and support following the publication of the Government's new drugs strategy.

Sarah Muckle – the council's director of public health, speaking on behalf of Bradford District and Craven Health and Care Partnership – said there was a strong link between inequalities and the impact drug dependency could have.

She added: "Unfortunately, the increasing cost of living – combined with the ongoing legacy of Covid-19 – means many people in our district are struggling.

"We acknowledge this, and our health and care partnership is focused on prioritising reducing inequalities in our communities, helping those who face the largest gaps.

"We have frontline services available across Bradford district, which work hard to support those with dependency and addiction issues.

"They provide a free and confidential service to anyone seeking support for themselves and to people who are caring for someone with dependency needs."

* 24/7 confidential help and support for drug addiction can be found on the Oasis Recovery Bradford website at ukat.co.uk/treatment-centres/oasis-bradford. You can also call 0808 274 8029 for urgent help.