Purpose

The Greater Manchester Drugs Early Warning System service is currently out to tender however a short extension period to the existing contract is required to cover the period to the start of a new contract.

DEWS contributes to the GM ambition to reduce drug related deaths and
drug related harm; as described below.

DEWS provides a valuable resource for professionals to report incidents relating to the use of drugs, seek specialist knowledge and support, and establish incidents or patterns relating to particular problem substances (e.g. adulterated or incorrectly identified batches in circulation).

DEWS provides each Greater Manchester local authority area with a Local Drug Information System (LDIS) where professionals from a range of organisations such as police, schools, hospitals, substance misuse services, and youth services, can submit and receive reports of incidents relating to drugs, emerging drugs, and changes to the local market.

DEWS enables the review of any significant incidents or developments relating to drugs and provides support ranging from targeted information to professionals/drug users to general public announcements. These are co-ordinated prior to release with relevant GM/local organisations such as GMCA, police, local authority, and health services.

An existing contract for these services is currently in its final year of operation under Contract No. GMCA 490.

Decision

The Greater Manchester Drugs Early Warning System agreement with Linnell Communications is extended from 1st September 2026 to 1st November 2026, in order to provide ongoing coverage and support to local authorities, Greater Manchester Police, and other stakeholders. The value of the extension is £3,490 (plus VAT = £4,188).