Leeds

The memorial will take place on Friday 30 August 2024, beginning at 10:30 AM and leading up to a minute’s silence at 11:00 AM, in Penny Pocket Park, opposite Leeds Minster.

The event will feature speakers reflecting on those they have lost, and attendees will be invited to write memories on yellow hearts, symbolizing remembrance and love.

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is observed annually on 31 August to raise awareness about overdose, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, and advocate for change to reduce the harms associated with drug use.

Forward Leeds, the city’s alcohol and drug service, has organized this year’s event near their hub in the city centre, continuing their commitment to support those affected by substance use.

Helen Rodgers, Service Manager at Forward Leeds, stated: “We’ll gather together not to remember the numbers, but the names, the faces, and the lives of people that touched our hearts.

“Together, we will honour their memories and stand united in our commitment to bring awareness, understanding, and change. We hope lots of people in Leeds will join us to remember and celebrate the lives of people they miss.”

Recent statistics highlight the ongoing crisis: Across West Yorkshire, there were 243 deaths from drug poisoning in 2022. In Leeds alone, drug-related deaths have continued to rise, with 671 people dying from drug poisoning between 2013 and 2022.

Forward Leeds will be collecting yellow heart memories from attendees and displaying them across their sites in the days following Overdose Awareness Day. The service will also be sharing messages on its social media channels, offering tips on preventing overdose and advice on what to do if someone is suspected of overdosing.