DHSC highlighted that local areas will base treatment and recovery services on local needs and demographics. We heard that the strategy was leading to innovation and good practice but the JCDU and departments could not point to specific examples.56 Dame Carol told us progress was patchy, with some local authorities finding it more difficult to make systemic change.57 DHSC recognised that there is variability across combating drugs partnerships, with 19 of 30 areas it reviewed requiring extra assistance.58 It is considering withholding a proportion of funding allocations for 2024–25 unless these areas develop improvement plans.59