Strengthening the range of support available to those at risk, and the means to reach them
Our Work
By April 2025, we’ve come a long way. Here’s a visual look at our journey in the first two phases:
In 2025 an independent evaluation found “that the DLS programme has had a positive impact – it has helped more people get online and develop digital skills, made it easier for them to engage with support services, improved their wellbeing by reducing isolation, and provided new ways to stay safe and reduce immediate risks of harm. These changes show how digital inclusion can be a powerful tool to support people with problem drug use, complementing Scotland’s National Mission to reduce drug-related harms.”
The evaluation in 2025 also recommended a “call for a collective effort to embed digital inclusion into the fabric of support for people who use drugs. Organisations need to lead with strategy and resources, practitioners need to implement with compassion and creativity, and individuals should be empowered and involved. The DLS Phase 2 evaluation shows that when these pieces come together, digital lifelines can truly help save lives and build brighter futures. The task now is to maintain and expand on these gains – making sure that digital lifelines remain strong long after the initial programme, so that everyone in Scotland, regardless of their circumstances, can benefit from the opportunities of the digital age.”
Phase 3:
Building on our success to date, the current phase has re-focussed on the ‘sector’ level of our original tripartite “people, services, sector” objective. Seeking opportunities and insight to embed and sustain change in the system supporting people who use drugs.
Digital Lifelines Scotland launched the latest phase in April 2025: A Place-Based Digital Inclusion Fund, which supports East Ayrshire ADP and Angus ADP to deliver local digital inclusion initiatives.
Phase 3 aims to:
- Design and apply integrated service models with digital support.
- Improve access through person-centred and rights-based services.
- Capture learning that can influence ADP delivery and national approaches.
Digital Inclusion Assets
The programme's Digital Inclusion model includes access to a Digital Inclusion Playbook gathering together good practice for adoption across Scotland. Bespoke Digital Harm Reduction Training is delivered through SCVO partners Mohr Collective and adapts and evolves with each new participant.
During Phase 3 Simon Community will lead on developing a DLS Sustainability Strategy offering insight to cost effective purchasing of devices and connectivity. Highlighting existing social tariffs and data banks offering low-cost, sometimes free, sims and data options.
The programme's Digital Inclusion model includes access to the following Digital Lifelines Scotland assets:
Digital Products and Services
By My Side
Digital Lifelines Scotland fund the development of digital products and services aimed at reducing the risk of harm for people who use drugs.
Simon Community Scotland (SCS), in partnership with tech consultancy AND Digital, have developed 'By My Side', a digital app allowing easy access to evidence -based harm reduction support, advice and resources.
Originally designed 'for women, by women', the By My Side app has been co-developed with women supported by SCS, directly addressing the challenges they face in gaining access to the right information.
Initially focused on advice to prevent drug-related harm, the app is now home to wider resources such as mental health guidance, support for those affected by domestic or sexual violence and information for managing sexual health.
Digital Lifelines Scotland is funding further development of By My Side until March 2026. This is expanding the functionality and coverage of the app and has increased the content available including the search functionality for local services.