A plan aimed at reducing the harm caused by illegal drugs in the Isle of Man says greater emphasis should be placed on treatment rather than punishment for people caught with small amounts of drugs.

An interim report published by the Government also calls for more education about drug-related harm, particularly aimed at children and young people.

The Response to the Policy Principles - A Harm Reduction Approach: Interim Report is one of two reports aimed at reducing harm, keeping communities safe and improving support for people and families affected by substance misuse.

Problem-solving courts could also be introduced, using a multidisciplinary approach to tackle the root causes of criminal behaviour rather than relying solely on traditional punishment.

The report says: ‘We will prioritise diversion and treatment over criminalising people for minor possession offences.

‘The prison system is currently at full capacity, highlighting the need for alternatives to incarceration, especially for individuals involved in minor drug-related offences.

‘The Problem-Solving Court aims to address the root causes of offending rather than respond to individual offences. The approach focuses on rehabilitation, offering treatment programmes instead of traditional punitive measures.

‘It is important to balance support for offenders with the need to address the harm caused to victims of drug-related crimes.’

The reports follow policy principles approved by Tynwald and outline both what is already being done to help people affected by drugs and plans to strengthen support further.

Work is already being carried out by the Government, police, pharmacies, Public Health, Manx Care and third-sector organisations to reduce drug-related harm.

An Action and Implementation Plan aims to reduce harm, make services easier to access, improve education and awareness, prioritise treatment and support where appropriate and improve the collection of information.

Director of Public Health Dr Matt Tyrer said: ‘Drug-related harm is a complex challenge which affects individuals, families and communities in different ways.

‘The Isle of Man already has a strong foundation of services and initiatives in place. This plan provides a shared roadmap for partners to build on that work, strengthen coordination and ensure that future activity is informed by the best available evidence.

‘A key theme throughout the plan is the importance of understanding local need through robust intelligence, enabling interventions and resources to be targeted where they can have the greatest impact.’

The report also highlights the importance of educating people about the potential harm caused by drugs from an early age.

It says: ‘There is a need to shift public attitudes and understanding of the reasons behind drug use.

‘Early education is crucial to build empathy from a young age and encourage informed decision-making. General public education campaigns could provide accurate information on substance use and its risks.’

The report also emphasises the need to protect victims of organised criminal gangs and ensure they are able to engage with police and support services.

A new multi-agency group will now be established to oversee the next stage of the work.