Concerns have been raised over treatment standards

The Scottish Executive is to promise more money by Christmas to tackle delays in drug treatment services.

They are keen to streamline services and ensure those in need are given effective help.

There have been reports that some drug users are committing crimes to access treatment programmes faster than they would by waiting for NHS treatment.

Training plea

Funding to offer drugs treatment and rehabilitation to users is allocated through Scotland's 22 drug action teams.

However, the executive is concerned that services vary considerably and often do not reflect local demand.

There is also concern that specialist services - in particular help to combat cocaine addiction - are not widely available.

Drugs workers argue that the review must address bureaucracy which they say is wasting money which would otherwise be available to treat addiction.

This is an opportunity to look for new horizons in drug treatment Hugh Henry Deputy Justice Minister

Deputy Justice Minister Hugh Henry said the review was an opportunity to see what additional services are required to help drug users.

He said: "This is a review - it is not a revamp or an overhaul.

"This is an opportunity to look for new horizons in drug treatment - not an excuse to navel-gaze.

"Too many lives are still being lost to drugs, and too many people seeking help are waiting too long to access that help."

David Liddell, director of the Scottish Drugs Forum, said it hoped the review would be a success.

He said: "We welcome the review as an opportunity to improve drug services including developing routes out of drug use and into jobs, education and training.