Matthew Scott

Director

Matthew has specialised in drug and alcohol work for 14 years, making a significant contribution in Government policy and as a frontline practitioner, service manager, and commissioner. He has also worked in children's and youth services.

For Department for Children, Schools and Families, Matthew led the development of young people and families elements of the current 10 year drug strategy (2008-2018); chaired the Drug and Alcohol Education Review (date); worked on the Youth Alcohol Action Plan (date); and launched the consultation on alcohol guidance for children and parents with the Chief Medical Officer.

As Director of Tonic Consultants, he has worked for:

Home Office - leading on the Code of Practice for alcohol retailers
Department of Health – as part of the alcohol National Support Team
Local Authorities – managing research and development projects, such as recent work on dual diagnosis and child poverty for Essex
University of Kent - developing a diploma module on young people and drugs and teaching on the Addictions degree course

As a practitioner, service manager and commissioner, Matthew:

Developed the Drug Use Screening Tool (DUST) and training which is used in many areas around the country
Ran a needle exchange & worked as a prescribing key worker
Won the High Sheriff of Kent award for his work as a young people’s drugs worker and service manager
De-commissioned a failing service as a commissioner and led on the development of adult drug treatment plans
Established a youth club that went on to win a national award