What is harm reduction?
What is Harm Reduction – Transcript
All substances have a risk of causing harm, and a lot of the time, the safer way to be is not to use drugs or alcohol. But that is not a choice everyone can or wants to make. There are also times when it is safer to continue using it, such as if you are prescribed medication or if you’ve been using it for a long time and need special help coming down. It is important to reflect on the role substances may play in our lives and the lives of those around us. If people are using it, it’s important to have accurate information to help reduce the amount of harm that could happen. Reducing the risk is commonly referred to as harm reduction. Even if we aren’t using it, this is good information to know, because you may find yourself in a position where you can help someone else.
Harm Reduction Programs and Safer Substance Use Supply Distribution
SERC has offered peer-led harm reduction programming in both Brandon and Winnipeg. Brandon’s program was known as Project Love, while Winnipeg’s program, PeerNPeer, supported Two-Spirit, Trans, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Queer + (2STLGBQ+) folks engaged in sexualized drug use.
Project LOVE: Let Our Voices Educate (No longer active)
A peer-led group that ran out of SERC Brandon and some rural communities. We had a small group of volunteers with lived experience using different substances. We worked together to provide harm reduction supplies and education, helping to keep our communities safer.
While this project has finished, safer substance use supplies and information are still available at the Brandon office.
2STLGBQ+ PeerNPeer (No longer active)
PnP, also called Party and Play or Chemsex, is a commonly used term among 2STLGBQ+ folks for using drugs as part of sex. SERC recognizes that just like bars, apps, activism, or curling, this is one of many ways 2STLGBQ+ people might connect. However, the unique stigma surrounding drugs and sex can create barriers to accessing the tools folks need for safer PnP. These may include:
- Harm reduction supply access, such as injection kits, pipes, and Naloxone
- Getting regular HIV and STI testing
- Accessing supportive service providers and health professionals
- Connecting to peers and community in other meaningful ways
SERC Peer N Peer was a Winnipeg-based program that supported the unique needs of the 2STLGBQ+ PnP community. This program was peer-led and included the confidential distribution of PnP harm reduction supplies. The program was piloted from April 2022 to March 2023. It is currently on hold while we look to secure more funding. In the meantime, please check out the resources here.
This initiative was created in partnership with the Community-Based Research Centre with funding from Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program (SUAP). The views herein do not necessarily represent the views of Health Canada.