DTORS was a longitudinal outcomes study based on a very large sample of drug users presenting for treatment at agencies across the country. Clients were interviewed as soon as possible following presentation for treatment and were followed up at 3 and 12 month stages. The objectives of the study were to assess the impact of treatment on drug and alcohol use, offending behaviour, physical and mental health issues and wider social outcomes. The study also included qualitative work with agency staff and clients in order to understand more about the context of outcomes and the factors that contribute to success, and a cost benefit analysis.

This work provided a vital update to previous research (such as NTORS), taking into account, among other things, changing patterns of drug use and the growth in criminal justice referrals. Information gathered is available to be used to inform government decisions about drug treatment.

Please click Aims for more details about the study and the research questions that will be addressed by DTORS. The study was given Ethical Approval, click this link for more information.