Drug Treatment and Testing Orders

Drug Treatment and Testing Orders (DTTO) are imposed by courts where someone's offending is linked to drug misuse. The focus of a DTTO is to address drug use to reduce the risk of further offending and harm.

What will I have to do during a DTTO?

If you're given a DTTO, you'll be required to undergo treatment associated with drug use. You'll need to be drug tested and attend frequent reviews of your order with the Sheriff that sentenced you.

How long can a DTTO last?

An order may vary in length from 6 months to 3 years.

Who can get a DTTO?

Offenders aged 16 or over who have a serious drug problem may be considered for a DTTO.

If the court or a criminal justice social worker thinks you may be suitable for a DTTO, you'll be referred for an assessment. To be considered for a DTTO:

• there should be an established link between your drug use and your offending

• your drug use must be able to respond to an available treatment option

• you must show clear motivation to take part in a programme of treatment and change

What treatment is provided?

If you're sentenced to a DTTO, your supervising officer, nurse and other support staff will develop an action plan to offer you the opportunity to address your drug problem and offending.

DTTOs aim to support offenders to reduce or stop illicit drug use. Treatment may include:

• individual support/information/advice
• detox/substitute prescribing
• group work to support behaviour change
• residential programmes

What does an assessment for DTTO involve?

You'll receive a number of assessment appointments that you need to attend and you'll be expected to take part in a number of oral drug tests.

Your appointments will include contact with a social worker, nurse and the DTTO doctor.

The frequency of contact during assessment will normally be 2 to 3 times a week until your court date.

During your assessment period we'll establish your suitability for DTTO or if another option is better suited to your needs.

Minimum testing plans will be outlined in the assessment and monthly reviews at court.

What will I have to do during a DTTO?

If you're made subject to a DTTO, you'll usually be required to attend your DTTO team office 2 or 3 times a week for testing, supervision and monitoring of medication.

You'll be seen by your social worker who'll monitor your compliance and report back to the court on a monthly basis. Appointments will also include time with a nurse and a support worker may assist you with your order including offering practical support.

Reviews will usually be held at court each month where you'll be required to attend so the Sheriff who sentenced you to DTTO can monitor your progress.

Contact with the DTTO team throughout the order will be adjusted as required.