Forward Leeds is inviting people across the city to come together for International Overdose Awareness Day 2026, a day of remembrance, education and action to help prevent drug-related deaths.
A community event will take place in Park Square on Friday 28 August, with staff on site from 10am to 2.30pm offering free information, advice and support on drugs, alcohol and overdose prevention.
Everyone is welcome to attend, whether to remember a loved one, learn more about overdose prevention or find out about the support available in Leeds.
A memorial and minute’s silence will be held at 11am, providing an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose and stand alongside the families, friends and communities affected.
At 12.30pm, there will be a demonstration showing how to use naloxone, a life-saving medication that can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose while emergency help is on its way.
Naloxone is now available free of charge from a range of pharmacies across Leeds, making it easier than ever for people to carry this vital medication and potentially save a life.
International Overdose Awareness Day is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember those who have died and encourage action to reduce drug-related harm. In Leeds, previous events have brought together people with lived experience, bereaved families, treatment providers, healthcare professionals and community organisations to remember loved ones, challenge stigma and promote practical ways to prevent overdose.
The day has also highlighted the importance of widening access to naloxone and ensuring people know how to recognise and respond to an overdose.
Every overdose death has a lasting impact on families, friends and communities. By coming together, Leeds can help reduce stigma, encourage people to seek support and raise awareness of the simple actions that can save lives.
Whether you can join the memorial, attend the naloxone demonstration or simply drop by to speak with the team, your support will help mark this important day.
Event details
International Overdose Awareness Day – Leeds
Date: Friday 28 August 2026
Time: 10am to 2.30pm
Location: Park Square, Leeds LS1 2NP
Programme:
- 11am – Memorial and minute’s silence
- 12.30pm – Naloxone demonstration
- The event’s theme is Remember. Reflect. Respond.
Join us as we remember those we’ve lost, support those affected by overdose and work together to prevent future deaths.
#EndOverdose #IOAD2026 #LeedsRemembers