DTORS is a longitudinal outcomes study based on a very large sample of drug users presenting for treatment at agencies across the country. Clients will be interviewed as soon as possible following presentation for treatment and will be followed up at 3 and 12 month stages (and possibly beyond). The objectives of the study are to assess the impact of treatment on drug and alcohol use, offending behaviour, physical and mental health issues and wider social outcomes. The study will also include 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 will provide 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 will be used to inform government decisions about drug treatment over the forthcoming years and will directly influence future drug treatment strategies.

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