We offer a range of support aimed at reducing harm and improving your health.

What is harm reduction?

Harm reduction means using practical strategies to lower the risks and negative effects linked to using substances. It’s also about respecting and supporting the rights of people who use substances and making sure everyone has access to information and care.

On this page, you’ll find tips and advice to help you reduce the risks linked to drug use. We’ll share ways to stay safer, look after your health, and make informed choices about your use.

  • At Inclusion, we’re committed to promoting health and wellbeing, and to preventing drug-related harm in a way that truly meets you where you are. We never force or pressure anyone into treatment goals – instead, we work together to develop and agree on targets that feel right for you.

    - Taj - Head of Operations

At Inclusion, our focus is on helping you reduce the risks and negative health effects linked to unsafe drug use, especially when it comes to blood borne viruses (BBVs). We treat everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion, and our approach is always non-judgemental.

The strategies and activities we use to reduce harm are tailored to the specific substance involved. Some of the proven interventions and services we offer include:

  • Needle and syringe programmes to reduce the risk of infections
  • Testing and vaccination for blood borne viruses such as hepatitis B and C, and HIV
  • Prescribing medications that can help stabilise, reduce or detox from drugs
  • Overdose prevention education and awareness
  • Access to naloxone and training on how to use it to prevent opioid overdose deaths
  • Safer using advice and practical tips to lower your risk
  • Health MOT clinics physical health and wellbeing assessments
  • Support with wound care and advice on safer injecting
  • Referral to specialist healthcare services when needed

If you’d like to know more about any of these services or how we can support you, please speak to a member of our team. We’re here to help you stay as safe and healthy as possible, wherever you are on your journey.

It’s important to acknowledge that we can never remove all risks completely which is why we say it will reduce or minimise harm.

Harm reduction advice can differ depending on the type of drugs. 

General advice to reduce harm and stay safer:

  • Avoid using alone: The risk of overdose is higher if you’re by yourself. If possible, use with trusted friends in a safe environment, and let them know what you’re taking.
  • Start low, go slow: Begin with a small amount and wait to see how it affects you before deciding to take more.
  • Don’t mix substances: Mixing drugs, especially with alcohol, can increase risks and lead to unpredictable effects.
  • Never drive under the influence: Using drugs or alcohol can impair your ability to drive safely.
  • Take care of your body: Eat and rest between use to help your body recover.
  • Manage your money: Try to limit access to funds so you don’t spend money needed for essentials like rent or food on substances.
  • Don’t share equipment: Sharing drug equipment can spread blood borne viruses like HIV and hepatitis C.
  • Buy as safely as possible: If you choose to buy drugs, try to use a trusted source to reduce risk.
  • Ask for help if you need it: Don’t be afraid to seek support or be honest about what you’ve taken—help is available, and you won’t be judged.

Get help now

Call 01983 526654 for help

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