Government Consultation on Naloxone
February 25, 2026
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is a life-saving drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose and can help to prevent overdose deaths. Anyone can administer naloxone in an emergency but currently, it can only legally be supplied to an individual for future use by a list of professionals and services named in the Human Medicines Regulations 2012.
What are the proposed changes?
The Department of Health and Social Care is seeking views in this consultation on proposals to further expand access to naloxone across the UK. These changes include
- allow hostels, day centres and outreach services for people experiencing homelessness to supply naloxone without a prescription
- create publicly accessible emergency naloxone boxes, similar to defibrillator cabinets
- clarify rules for workplaces at risk of opioid contamination (accidental exposure)
How can I share my views?
You can contribute the consultation before 9th March via the government website.
Naloxone in our Network
Housing Justice are interested to understand more about first aid that network members are giving to clients who overdose in their services
- How often is this crisis first aid required of you?
- What training do you have?
- What support do you have, and what support do you need, to manage these crisis situations?
Email [email protected] to share your experiences with overdose in shelters and centres.
