Description
A tenth of the adult population Hungary had used some type of drug. While earlier half of the clients of the needle exchange programs used intravenous heroin or amphetamine, in 2013 three quarter of them used some new psychoactive substance. The effect of the new substances are shorter, therefore users inject more often, increasing the risk of infectious diseases. The program is located in the 7th district of Budapest, targeting the health problems caused by intravenous substance use. They organize needle exchange and the collection of drug trash, decreasing the spread of HIV and hepatitis. Besides these low-threshold services, the organization builds connections with the social and health service providers, informs the target group about the available services and motivates them to use these. One of the aims of the project is to decrease problems related to drug use, however the sensitization of the general society is also important. We operate a toll-free phone service for the local population which helps in the collection of drug trash and to reach the potential clients. They organize a communication campaign to provide fact-based information.
Summary of project results
The main aspect of the project was flexibility, so they could to respond the individual needs of the visitors. The services could to change in the mindset of the people involved, which resulted a better quality of life. By the acceptance, understanding and help of active addicts, eliminated their marginalization. The recovered addicts employees presented a good example to those who have lost the hope for a sober life. Credible information transfer could reduce harm caused by irresponsible drug use. The services was not abstinence-oriented, so the aim was rather to make addicts aware of the consequences of the use, and the opportunities, which could make drug use safer. They provided sterile syringes, laundry facilities, clothes, club-like group events, the possibility of listening music in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere even for intravenous drug users and people with other addictions, thus to achieve the main goal: harm reduction.
Summary of bilateral results