There has been a 5.6 per cent reduction in the amount of drug and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour reported in Tower Hamlets, thanks to a new partnership which aims to support individuals to access treatment and other services.
Substance misuse affects individuals, families, and entire neighbourhoods. Tower Hamlets Council created the Combatting Drugs Partnership in 2023 to make sure there was dedicated oversight to break the drug supply in the borough, deliver a world-class treatment and recovery system for individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, and prevent demand for drugs and the harms that they cause to communities.
The approach focuses on prevention of harms, early support and recovery, while ensuring firm and fair action is taken when needed to prevent harm in communities.
Tackling these challenges requires genuine partnership across health, enforcement, community organisations, and local residents.
Following the increased investment by the council:
A service user, who asked to be anonymous, said: “The support that I received has helped put my life back on track. The daily hunt for money and drugs has been removed. So life is looking brighter now than it has for the past 27 years.”
Cllr Kabir Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Integrated Enforcement, said:
“Our local approach is clear and balanced.
“We are supporting people into recovery while protecting our neighbourhoods from harm. By focusing on prevention of harms, early help and firm, fair action, we’re working with health partners, police, voluntary groups, and local residents to create safer, healthier communities.
“Our message is simple: we stand with those who need support, and we will always act to safeguard the wellbeing and safety of our borough."
Posted on Thursday 20th August 2026