A groundbreaking initiative that equips front-line police officers in Leicestershire with a lifesaving antidote for opiate overdoses has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.
Developed through a partnership between Leicester City Council’s public health team, Leicestershire Police, and local drug and alcohol treatment provider Turning Point, the initiative has potentially saved 14 lives in its first year of operation.
Picture credit: Leicestershire Police
The project is now a finalist for the Public Partnerships Award at the 2025 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards, which celebrate excellence in local government across the UK.
The initiative was launched in response to the national rise in drug-related deaths—many of which could be prevented with Naloxone, a fast-acting medication that reverses the effects of opiate overdoses when administered promptly.
Rob Howard, Leicester’s Director of Public Health, explained: “In the event of an opiate overdose, nasal administration of Naloxone can reverse respiratory arrest and buy crucial time for emergency services to arrive.
“Police officers are often the first on the scene, and thanks to years of dedicated effort, Leicestershire Police is believed to be the first force in England and Wales to enable all front-line officers to carry Naloxone.
“This partnership has already saved lives, and will continue to do so, while also deepening awareness of the complex challenges faced by people who use drugs.”
The pilot scheme received approval from Leicestershire Police in 2023 after funding was secured and pilot sites were set up by Turning Point and the city council. Initially, select officers received training on overdose response and safe administration of Naloxone. The success of the pilot led to nearly 200 officers volunteering to carry the medication.
James Edmondston, Substance Misuse Team Leader at Leicestershire Police, said:
“A police officer’s foremost duty is to preserve life. Naloxone offers a simple, safe, and effective way to do that.
“This initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships. Not only is it saving lives, it’s also helping people access long-term treatment.
“We’re proud to see this work recognised and are now aiming to expand Naloxone use across the entire force, including in custody settings.”
Julie Bass, Chief Executive of Turning Point, added:
“Being shortlisted for this award is a testament to the strength of partnership working. We’re proud to collaborate with Leicestershire Police and Leicester City Council on an initiative that is not only saving lives, but also strengthening relationships between our services.”
In its first year, Naloxone was administered by officers on 14 separate occasions—situations where individuals may not have survived without it. Today, all new police recruits in Leicestershire are trained in Naloxone use during their induction and offered the opportunity to carry it. To date, every new recruit has volunteered to do so.
Winners of the 2025 LGC Awards will be announced at a ceremony on 11 June at Grosvenor House, London.
