As EMERGE Music Festival gets underway in Belfast, ASCERT, Northern Ireland’s leading drug and alcohol charity, is urging festival goers to look out for themselves and their friends and to recognise the signs when someone needs help.
Recent figures from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) highlight the continuing impact of drug-related deaths in Northern Ireland. In 2024, there were 251 drug related deaths registered. Opioids were mentioned in 131 deaths, while cocaine was noted as the main substance mentioned in deaths that involved only one drug. Alcohol was also mentioned in approximately one fifth of deaths. Belfast had the highest number of drug-related deaths registered across the region.
These figures are a stark reminder of the risks associated with drug use and mixing substances, including alcohol.
ASCERT’s Chief Executive, Gary McMichael, said:
“Festivals are a time to enjoy music, spend time with friends and make memories, but it’s also important that we look out for each another.
“You may not always know exactly what someone has taken, how strong it is, or whether they have taken anything else. Drugs can contain unexpected substances and mixing drugs, including alcohol, can increase the risks.
“If you are concerned about a friend, don’t ignore it and don’t leave them alone. Look at what is happening, stay with them and get help.
“People can sometimes worry that getting medical help will get their friend into trouble. When someone is seriously unwell, the priority is getting them the medical attention they need. It is always better to seek help than to wait and hope that someone will recover.”
“If medical staff ask what substances someone has taken, be as honest as you can. They are not asking to get you or your friend into trouble. Knowing what has been taken, including alcohol or a combination of substances, can help them understand what is happening and decide how best to treat you. Even if you are unsure what a substance was or how much was taken, tell medical staff what you do know. The more information they have, the better they can help.”
LOOK. STAY. GET HELP.
- LOOK: If someone is confused, unconscious, having a seizure, struggling to breathe, overheating or seriously unwell, they may need urgent help.
- STAY: Don’t leave someone who is seriously unwell alone.
- GET HELP: Contact medical staff or emergency services immediately.
You don’t have to know exactly what has happened to know that someone needs help.
ASCERT is here to support anyone who needs help with alcohol or drug use. Their services are free, confidential, and open to people of all ages.
For help or more information, visit www.ascert.biz or call 0800 2545 123.