What action is being taken to ensure that all substance misuse services staff are trained in suicide risk assessment and prevention.

The Scottish Government is committed to reinforcing suicide prevention action across a range of sectors. By 2010, 50% of key frontline mental health services, primary care, substance misuse and accident and emergency staff will be educated and trained in using suicide assessment tools and suicide prevention training programmes.
As part of action to help achieve this target, capacity has been built within Alcohol and Drug Action Teams (ADATs) by continuing to develop provision of suicide prevention and awareness training. Growing linkage between ADATs and local Choose Life suicide prevention implementation groups recognises that substance misuse staff are key gatekeepers for drug users who are at increased risk of suicide. Suicide prevention training skills training is an increasing priority for many ADATs.