Harm reduction is a big focus for ROAR, we recognise that recovery looks different for every individual and do not exclude those who do not wish to be abstinent. We aim to meet individuals where they’re at and subsequently ensure we do all we can to manage the risks associated with alcohol/substance use.
We are currently collaborating with the Forward Trust, CGL and Transform Drugs to discuss the benefits of overdose prevention sites in more detail.
Due to the increase in Nitazines in local drug supply we will be holding a Naloxone training and information event In Canterbury in the near future which will be aimed at service providers and any individuals that feel it would be useful. We will be training and dispensing Naloxone.
We already have trained volunteers dispensing Naloxone at our groups to those requiring it and we know it has already made an impact in one instance in particular when a client from the Rainbow Centre fed back to a volunteer how he’d received Naloxone from the ROAR volunteer the week before and had come to ask for a replacement as he had used the previous one on a friend of his that had overdosed – he thanked us for saving his life
This example highlights how effective Naloxone can be and shows the importance of training and education. Whether the person carrying it is in regular contact with people who use drugs or not, Naloxone can save a life when it matters.
For those unsure of what Naloxone is and what it can do we’ve added some information below.
What is Naloxone?
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist: a medication used to reverse or reduce the effects of opioids. For example, it is used to restore breathing after an opioid overdose. Effects begin within two minutes when given intravenously, five minutes when injected into a muscle, and ten minutes as a nasal spray.
Benefits of Naloxone
Reverses Opioid Overdoses, Immediate Action: Naloxone rapidly reverses the effects of opioids like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription painkillers by binding to opioid receptors, displacing the opioids, and blocking their effects.
Prevents Death: Administering naloxone can quickly restore normal respiration in a person whose breathing has slowed or stopped due to opioid overdose, thus preventing death.
No Potential for Abuse: Naloxone is not addictive and does not produce euphoria. It only works when opioids are present in the system, meaning it has little to no effect if opioids are not present.
Safe for All Ages: Naloxone is safe for use in all ages, including children and pregnant women, making it a crucial tool in emergency situations.
User-Friendly: Naloxone is available as a nasal spray or an injectable, both of which are designed for ease of use by bystanders, including those without medical training.
Harm Reduction: Naloxone is a cornerstone of harm reduction strategies, helping to reduce the number of deaths from opioid overdoses and providing a second chance for individuals struggling with addiction.
Encourages Connection to Treatment: Surviving an overdose often leads individuals to seek addiction treatment, making naloxone a critical link in connecting people to the help they need.
Supports Emergency Responders: Naloxone is widely used by emergency responders, including police, paramedics, and firefighters, allowing them to provide critical intervention before reaching a hospital.
The UK government outlines that drug services can supply naloxone to:
· outreach workers
· hostel managers
· people using drugs
· a carer, friend or family member of a person using drugs
· any individual working in an environment where there is a risk of overdose for which the naloxone may be useful
They also state that “in an emergency, anyone can use any available naloxone to save a life”.
If you haven't already received training to carry and use Naloxone should the need arise, you can reach out to us or meet our volunteers at one of our meet & greets for 5 minutes of training. It could be you that saves a life tomorrow.
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