Drug addiction in Guildford

In recent years, Guildford has witnessed a concerning rise in drug-related deaths, accompanied by an increasing number of individuals seeking support for substance misuse. This trend is reflective of broader patterns observed throughout Surrey, suggesting that the issue is not isolated but part of a wider public health challenge affecting the region. Between 2020 and 2022, Guildford recorded a drug-related mortality rate of 5. 9 per 100, 000 population—a figure that remains lower than the national average of 8. 1 per 100, 000 but still represents a significant cause for concern within the local context. The prevalence of drug offences further underscores this growing problem. In the year leading up to July 2025, there were approximately 1, 200 reported drug offences in the Guildford area alone. This accounts for around 2. 4% of all reported crimes locally, highlighting the persistent nature of substance-related criminal activity within the community. 

These statistics are not isolated; they align with previous data that points to an ongoing issue over time. For instance, an earlier report published in August 2017 brought particular attention to drug misuse fatalities within Guildford by recording sixteen such deaths—the highest number cited in more than a decade at that point. This spike served as an alarming indicator and prompted calls for enhanced intervention and support services. Beyond substance misuse specifically, crime more broadly remains a notable concern in Guildford. During 2025, the overall crime rate reached seventy-four offences per one thousand residents—significantly higher than the average across Surrey as a whole. Of these crimes, violent and sexual offences were identified as being particularly prevalent and problematic within the borough. 

Collectively, these figures illustrate not only a rise in both drug-related harm and criminality but also underline an urgent need for sustained public health strategies and law enforcement efforts tailored to address both immediate risks and longer-term social impacts on Guildford’s communities.

Across Surrey, there has been a consistent and noticeable increase in the number of individuals actively seeking structured treatment for substance misuse. In 2023/24 alone, a total of 3,935 adults and 165 children accessed specialist support services tailored to address issues related to drug and alcohol dependency. These figures reflect a growing recognition of the importance of professional intervention in managing substance-related challenges within the community.

Data from those initiating treatment in Surrey during 2021/22 shows that alcohol and cannabis were the most commonly misused substances, each accounting for 44% of new cases. Cocaine followed closely at 38%, opiates at 29%, and crack cocaine at 19%. These statistics illustrate not only the prevalence but also the diversity of substances contributing to substance use disorders across different age groups.

Despite Surrey having one of England’s lowest rates of opiate prevalence in 2019/20, concerns remain about hard drug use within the county. Estimates indicate that over 2,600 individuals aged between 15 and 64 used either opiates or crack cocaine—or both—across Surrey during 2021/22. This finding underscores an ongoing public health challenge that requires sustained attention from local authorities, healthcare providers, and community organisations. By understanding these patterns and responding proactively with effective prevention and treatment strategies, Surrey can continue its efforts to reduce substance misuse and support those affected by addiction.

Furthermore, there is a well-established correlation between mental health conditions and increased susceptibility to substance misuse. Extensive national data show that certain demographic groups—such as individuals facing unemployment, experiencing financial hardship, identifying as bisexual, living with disabilities, or having a history of abuse—are statistically more likely to engage in drug use. These factors are particularly important and deserve careful consideration when assessing the risk of substance misuse within Guildford’s population. Taking these intersecting vulnerabilities into account provides a more comprehensive understanding of local substance misuse patterns and highlights the need for tailored support strategies that address the unique challenges faced by these at-risk groups.