AIRD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assertiveness Intervention on Reducing Risk of Drug Related Death: a pilot study
IRAS ID
357872
Contact name
Amy Malaguti
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Tayside Health Board
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 22 days
Research summary
In 2023, there were 1,172 drug related deaths registered in Scotland. Risk factors for drug overdoses are a substance use disorder, polydrug use and previous experience of a near fatal overdose (NFOD). This study aims to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of a one-session assertiveness intervention. Assertiveness interventions have previously been carried out within this population group. Studies have found that levels of assertion have increased, and substance use reduced after the intervention. However, such interventions have not been carried out post-NFOD. It is tailored for individuals who use illicit substances and have recently experienced a near-fatal overdose. The study will be conducted in the Dundee Drug and Alcohol Recovery Service. The intervention incorporates role-play and practical exercises designed to increase participants’ confidence in refusing drugs and navigating peer pressure. A focus on enhancing communication, refusal and assertiveness skills specifically related to drug-taking situations will be carried out during the 60 minute intervention. The intervention is underpinned by the COM-B Model and Behaviour Change Wheel framework (Michie et al., 2011). This approach has been used to guide the design of the intervention and to identify relevant Behaviour Change Techniques (BCTs). Objectives for the study are assessing any change in assertiveness, illicit drug use and near fatal overdoses pre- and post- intervention. Participants will be identified through the NFOD pathway, with no incentives provided. Findings from the study will inform whether such an intervention, can reduce illicit substance use, limit any potential near fatal overdoses and increase assertiveness amongst participants.
REC name
East of Scotland Research Ethics Service REC 1
REC reference
25/ES/0084
Date of REC Opinion
3 Nov 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion