Drug harm reduction
The safest way to avoid harm from drugs is not to use them at all. But we understand that stopping is not always the first step. Our harm reduction resources can help you lower the risks linked to drug use.
What is harm reduction?
Harm reduction is not about telling you what to do. It's about giving you the tools and knowledge to reduce the dangers linked to drug use. Even small changes can make a big difference to your safety.
Featured resources
Safer injecting
Get harm reduction advice on how to stay safe and healthy if you're injecting.
Benzos: how to stay safer
How to avoid benzo risks, including what to do if someone overdoses after using Xanax, Valium (diazepam) or temazepam or other depressant drugs like heroin and methadone.
Benzodiazapines (benzos): How to get help
How to get support to cut down on your benzo use safely.
Chemsex: Staying safe and getting back in control
How to stay safer during chemsex, including tips for managing urges, setting boundaries, and how to plan for a weekend off.
Signs of a drug overdose
What the signs of overdose are, how to spot them, and what to do
How to use a naloxone nasal spray (Nyxoid)
How to use the naloxone nasal spray (Nyxoid), which reverses the effects of opioid drugs like heroin, morphine, methadone and fentanyl.
How to use a naloxone injection (Prenoxad)
Here's how to use naloxone (Prenoxad) if you think someone has overdosed.
Contaminated drugs: What you need to know
Drugs are changing. Learn about the increase in contaminated drugs and steps you can take to reduce harm.
Ways to reduce harm when taking drugs
Harm reduction services
Naloxone services
Our naloxone service provides free naloxone kits and training so you can help save a life in an emergency.
Needle exchange
Our needle exchange service gives you free, clean needles and other equipment to help you stay safer if you inject drugs.
Blood borne virus screening
We offer free and confidential blood borne virus (BBV) screening as part of your treatment and care. This helps you stay healthy and get the right support as soon as possible if you need it.
Your choice, your journey
We’re here for anyone in Stoke-on-Trent affected by drugs or alcohol.
If you’d like to talk through your options, contact us or come along to one of our drop-ins if you’re over 18. You don’t need a referral or an appointment - just yourself and your choice to explore what’s next.
