Lancashire Police train officers to use life-saving naloxone nasal spray
Frontline staff equipped to tackle opioid overdoses
Lancashire Police have taken a significant step in combating opioid-related deaths by training their frontline officers to use life-saving naloxone nasal spray.
Starting from 7th April 2026, the training has been incorporated into the force's first aid programme, with all officers and frontline staff now skilled in administering naloxone.
The decision to roll out this training aligns Lancashire Police with several other UK forces who aim to reduce the toll of opioid overdoses, which account for an average of 40 drug-related deaths weekly in the UK.
While officers have completed the training, carrying naloxone remains optional during their duty.
Lancashire Police partnered with The Calico Group and Change Grow Live (CGL) to facilitate the introduction of naloxone in the region.
Chief Constable Sacha Hatchett expressed pride in the initiative stating, “The safety and wellbeing of our community is always our top priority. I am proud that all of our frontline officers have now received training in the use of naloxone. This ensures that in those critical moments when every second counts, officers carrying naloxone are well equipped to take immediate action and potentially save lives."
Peter Furlong, National Harm Reduction Lead of Change Grow Live, echoed the significance of the programme:
“It’s great news to hear of more police officers willing to carry naloxone, the main aim being to put this life-saving medicine in the hands of people likely to be first responders to overdose incidents. With more and more forces on board now across the country, it’s inevitable that more needless deaths will be avoided.”
Sarah Tattersall, Head of Operations of The Calico Group, highlighted the collaborative efforts with Lancashire Police: “This is about looking out for people in our communities. By working together, we’re helping officers feel ready to act in an emergency. It could be the moment that keeps someone alive until an ambulance arrives.”
Naloxone is considered a crucial tool in the fight against opioid-related fatalities, and Lancashire Police’s initiative demonstrates forward-thinking in addressing the public health issue.