Our Approach
Harm reduction is an approach to drug use that aims to minimize the negative consequences associated with drug use while recognizing that people will continue to use drugs regardless of their legal status or societal attitudes. The harm reduction approach is based on a set of principles that prioritize the health and well-being of people who use drugs while respecting their autonomy and human rights.
Some key principles of harm reduction include:
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Non-Judgmental Approach: Harm reduction services and programs should be delivered without judgment or discrimination, regardless of a person's race, gender, sexual orientation, or drug use history.
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Human Rights & Dignity: People who use drugs have the right to access healthcare, social services, and legal protections, and should be treated with dignity and respect.
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Evidence-Based Practices: Harm reduction services and programs should be based on scientific evidence and best practices and should be constantly evaluated and improved.
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Peer Education & Support: People with lived experience of drug use should be involved in the design and delivery of harm reduction services and programs, and should be given opportunities to share their knowledge and expertise with others.
Harm reduction strategies can include a wide range of interventions, such as drug checking, overdose prevention, safer sex education, access to clean syringes and other injection equipment, and support for mental health and substance use disorders. Harm reduction programs can also provide resources and referrals to other services and supports, such as healthcare, housing, and legal assistance.
Overall, the harm reduction approach seeks to reduce the harms associated with drug use, without necessarily requiring abstinence or complete cessation of drug use. By prioritizing the health and well-being of people who use drugs, and respecting their autonomy and human rights, harm reduction programs and services can have a positive impact on individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
Non-Judgmental Approach:
A non-judgmental approach is a key aspect of harm reduction, providing services and programs without discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or drug use history. This fosters respect, compassion, and empathy towards clients in a safe and non-judgmental environment, which builds trust and community. This approach can improve health outcomes, increase access to social services, and reduce drug-related harms.
Human Rights & Dignity
Harm reduction programs recognize the same rights and dignities for people who use drugs, including access to healthcare, social services, and legal protections. By offering safe and supportive environments free of discrimination and stigma, these programs provide services such as HIV and hepatitis C testing, clean injection equipment, and referrals to legal and housing assistance. This promotes human rights and dignity, reducing social and economic costs of drug use and improving health and well-being.
Evidence-Based Practices
Harm reduction programs use evidence-based practices, informed by the latest research on drug use and harm reduction, to design and deliver services. Examples include drug checking technologies and overdose prevention training with naloxone distribution. This improves service effectiveness and efficiency, maximizing their impact on public health and safety. Programs are constantly evaluated and improved to reflect the latest evidence and best practices.
Peer Education & Support
Harm reduction programs involve people with lived experience of drug use in the design and delivery of services, promoting peer education and support. Examples include peer educators providing outreach & education. Peers bring cultural relevance and stronger connections with clients and communities while increasing self-esteem and empowerment. Peer involvement also reduces stigma and discrimination, and promotes social and political change.
How You Can Help
There are many ways to support our mission at Harm Reduction Circle, including donating, volunteering, spreading the word, partnering with us, & advocating for harm reduction. Join us in promoting healthcare access & reducing drug-related harm.