Developing research to inform policy and practice
The Drugs Research Network for Scotland aim to create and encourage the sharing of knowledge around drug related issues through collaboration across disciplines, organisations and countries to generate high-quality evidence that will inform developments in policy and practice.
Next Event
Join us for
Young People and Substance Use
Stirling
19 August 2025
10:00 – 13:30
Please email mcalnan@ed.ac.uk if costs are a barrier to attending
2025 Annual Conference
On 5 June 2025, DRNS held its Annual Conference at Dundee University, bringing together academic researchers, practitioners and clinicians, third sector representatives and people with living/lived experience to hear and share research.
Meaningful Engagement with Community Stakeholders in Research
In January 2025 we held an event around meaningful engagement in research to explore experiences and practices of Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) in research in Scotland. This report is a summary of discussions among the people who attended the event.
Peer Research: Three-Part Video Series
This video series explores how people with lived experience of substance use are leading research. Through personal stories and group dialogue, the series shows how peer led research builds trust, challenges stigma, and can ultimately improve services for people who use drugs and alcohol.
About DRNS
Established in August 2017 and funded by the Scottish Government, the Drugs Research Network for Scotland (DRNS) aims to facilitate knowledge exchange between the contributors, creators and users of drugs research to promote the generation of high-quality evidence that will inform developments in policy and practice. The DRNS aims to foster a strong community to enhance capacity and maximise investment into Scottish drugs research.
