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Soriano JB, Lumbreras S, Celli BR, Jenkins CR. I love you with all my lungs: a viewpoint on communicating effectively and positively about lung health. Eur Respir J 2024; 64:2400919. [PMID: 39054040 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00919-2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Joan B Soriano
- Servicio de Neumología, Hospital Universitario de la Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Lumbreras
- Departamento de Organización Industrial, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería (ICAI), Universidad Pontificia Comillas - IIT, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bartolomé R Celli
- Department of Medicine, Harvard University Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christine R Jenkins
- Respiratory Group, The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
- UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Falzon D, Carver H, Masterton W, Wallace B, Sumnall H, Measham F, Craik V, Gittins R, Aston EV, Watson K, Hunter C, Priyadarshi S, Parkes T. Planning and implementing community-based drug checking services in Scotland: a qualitative exploration using the consolidated framework for implementation research. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2024; 19:7. [PMID: 38233933 PMCID: PMC10795311 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00590-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug checking services (DCS) provide harm reduction support and advice to individuals based on chemical analysis of submitted substances of concern. Whilst there are currently no DCS in Scotland, community-based services are being planned in three cities. METHODS In this paper, we report qualitative findings based on interviews with 43 participants, focused on perceptions of DCS and their implementation. Participants were relevant professionals, those with experience of drug use, and family members of those with experience of drug use. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to inform data collection and analysis. We report findings under nine constructs/themes across the five CFIR domains. RESULTS Participants noted the importance of DCS being implemented in low-threshold, trusted services with a harm reduction ethos, and outlined a range of further service design considerations such as speed of testing, and information provided through the analysis process. In relation to the 'inner setting', a key finding related to the potential value of leveraging existing resources in order to expand both reach and effectiveness of drug trend communication. The approach of local and national police to DCS, and the attitudes of the public and local community, were described as important external factors which could influence the success (or otherwise) of implementation. Bringing together a range of stakeholders in dialogue and developing tailored communication strategies were seen as ways to build support for DCS. Overall, we found high levels of support and perceived need for DCS amongst all stakeholder groups. CONCLUSIONS Our findings present initial implementation considerations for Scotland which could be further explored as DCS are operationalised. Further, our focus on implementation contexts is relevant to research on DCS more generally, given the minimal consideration of such issues in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Falzon
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, UK.
| | - Hannah Carver
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, UK
| | - Wendy Masterton
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, UK
| | - Bruce Wallace
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research, University of Victoria, BCV8P 5C2, Victoria, Canada
| | - Harry Sumnall
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Liverpool John Moores University, L2 2QP, Liverpool, UK
| | - Fiona Measham
- Department of Sociology, Social Policy and Criminology, University of Liverpool, L69 7ZR, Liverpool, UK
- The Loop, Registered Charity, M13 9PL, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | - Elizabeth V Aston
- School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, EH11 4BN, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Kira Watson
- Scottish Ambulance Service, EH12 9EB, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Carole Hunter
- Alcohol and Drug Services, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, G51 1DP, Glasgow, UK
| | - Saket Priyadarshi
- Alcohol and Drug Services, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, G51 1DP, Glasgow, UK
| | - Tessa Parkes
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA, Stirling, UK
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Morris H, Wild TC, Giovannoni M, Haines-Saah R, Koziel J, Schulz P, Bwala H, Kunyk D, Bubela T, Hyshka E. Canadian newspaper coverage on harm reduction featuring bereaved mothers: A mixed methods analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294608. [PMID: 38011175 PMCID: PMC10681218 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that news media which includes a sympathetic portrayal of a mother bereaved by substance use can increase public support for harm reduction initiatives. However, the extent to which such news media coverage occurs in Canada is unknown, and research has not documented how the news media in Canada covers such stories. We undertook a mixed-method secondary analyses of 5681 Canadian newspaper articles on harm reduction (2000-2016). Quantitative analyses described the volume and content of harm reduction reporting featuring a mother whose child's death was related to substance use while qualitative thematic analysis provided in-depth descriptions of the discourses underlying such news reporting. Newspaper articles featuring a mother whose child's death was related to substance use were rarely published (n = 63; 1.1% of total harm reduction media coverage during the study period). Deductive content analysis of these 63 texts revealed that coverage of naloxone distribution (42.9%) and supervised drug consumption services (28.6%) were prioritized over other harm reduction services. Although harm reduction (services or policies) were advocated by the mother in most (77.8%) of these 63 texts, inductive thematic analysis of a subset (n = 52) of those articles revealed that mothers' advocacy was diminished by newspaper reporting that emphasized their experiences of grief, prioritized individual biographies over structural factors contributing to substance use harms, and created rhetorical divisions between different groups of people who use drugs (PWUD). Bereaved mothers' advocacy in support of harm reduction programs and services may be minimized in the process of reporting their stories for newspaper readers. Finding ways to report bereaved mothers' stories in ways that are inclusive of all PWUD while highlighting the role of broad, structural determinants of substance use has the potential to shift public opinion and government support in favour of these life-saving services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Morris
- Faculty of Nursing, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy (ECHA), University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - T. Cameron Wild
- School of Public Health, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marina Giovannoni
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Rebecca Haines-Saah
- Cummings School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary , Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Petra Schulz
- Moms Stop the Harm, RPO Broadmead, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Hauwa Bwala
- School of Public Health, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Diane Kunyk
- Faculty of Nursing, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy (ECHA), University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Tania Bubela
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Elaine Hyshka
- School of Public Health, Edmonton Clinic Health Academy, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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4
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White SA, Lee R, Kennedy-Hendricks A, Sherman SG, McGinty EE. Perspectives of U.S. harm reduction advocates on persuasive message strategies. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:112. [PMID: 37596595 PMCID: PMC10436451 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00849-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The messages used to communicate about harm reduction are critical in garnering public support for adoption of harm reduction interventions. Despite the demonstrated effectiveness of harm reduction interventions at reducing overdose deaths and disease transmission, the USA has been slow to adopt harm reduction to scale. Implementation of evidence-based interventions has been hindered by a historical framing of drug use as a moral failure and related stigmatizing attitudes among the public toward people who use drugs. Understanding how professional harm reduction advocates communicate to audiences about the benefits of harm reduction is a critical step to designing persuasive messaging strategies. METHODS We conducted qualitative interviews with a purposively recruited sample of U.S. professional harm reduction advocates (N = 15) to examine their perspectives on which types of messages are effective in persuading U.S. audiences on the value of harm reduction. Participants were professionals working in harm reduction advocacy at national- or state-level organizations promoting and/or implementing harm reduction. Semi-structured interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a hybrid inductive/deductive approach. RESULTS Interviewees agreed that messages about the scientific evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of harm reduction approaches are important but insufficient, on their own, to persuade audiences. Interviewees identified two overarching messaging strategies they perceived as persuasive: using messages about harm reduction that align with audience-specific values, for example centering the value of life or individual redemption; and positioning harm reduction as part of the comprehensive solution to current issues audiences are facing related to drug use and overdose in their community. Interviewees discussed tailoring messages strategies to four key audiences: policymakers; law enforcement; religious groups; and the family and friends of people who use, or have used, drugs. For example, advocates discussed framing messages to law enforcement from the perspective of public safety. CONCLUSIONS Interviewees viewed messages as most persuasive when they align with audience values and audience-specific concerns related to drug use and overdose death. Future research should test effectiveness of tailored messaging strategies to audiences using experimental approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A White
- Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Rachel Lee
- Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Alene Kennedy-Hendricks
- Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N Broadway St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Emma E McGinty
- Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Division of Health Policy and Economics, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 E. 67th St., New York, NY, 10065, USA
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Sumnall HR, Atkinson AM, Anderson M, McAuley A, Trayner K. How to save a life: Public awareness of a national mass media take home naloxone campaign, and effects of exposure to campaign components on overdose knowledge and responses. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023:104111. [PMID: 37563039 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Take home naloxone (THN) programmes are effective at reducing opioid related mortality, but require high levels of distribution, including to the general public. Mass media campaigns can be effective in improving public understanding of a topic and encouraging behavior change. Whilst mass media campaigns focusing on naloxone have been developed internationally, there is a lack of research on their potential impact. We investigated the effects of components of a recent national mass media campaign (Scotland, UK) designed to improve public awareness of drug related deaths, and readiness to intervene. METHODS We undertook a cross-sectional online experimental study with a randomized design, conducted with a nationally representative sample. Participants (N = 1551; 52.6% female; age 46.1±16.5 years) were assessed on overdose knowledge and readiness to intervene after presentation of eight combinations of campaign components. RESULTS Compared to a basic campaign description, exposure to all types of campaign component were associated with higher overdose knowledge (p < .001), but not knowledge of what to do in response to an overdose (p = .374), or readiness to intervene (p= .286). The greatest effects were associated with a media rich audio-visual resource (animated video with a popular song on the soundtrack, and narrated by a well-known actor). CONCLUSION Our data suggest that harm reduction is an appropriate topic for large-scale mass media campaigns. However, effects may be limited to knowledge and awareness raising in the general public, and may be related to the types of media used. Audience segmentation is important and more general messaging about drug related deaths may be more appropriate for the majority of audiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- H R Sumnall
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.
| | - A M Atkinson
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - M Anderson
- Scottish Drugs Forum, Glasgow, UK; MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - A McAuley
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK; Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kma Trayner
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK; Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
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McGinty EE, White SA, Sherman SG, Lee R, Kennedy-Hendricks A. Framing harm reduction as part of an integrated approach to reduce drug overdose: A randomized message testing experiment in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults, 2022. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 118:104101. [PMID: 37352766 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Low public support impedes widespread adoption of harm reduction services in the U.S. There are growing efforts to implement integrated programs offering harm reduction services alongside other services for people who use drugs. We tested how messages depicting integrated programs influence audience attitudes about harm reduction. METHODS A nine-group randomized experiment (N=3,181) embedded in a national survey of U.S. adults tested how factual and narrative messages describing programs integrating harm reduction, addiction treatment, and/or other services to reduce overdose influenced respondents' attitudes about harm reduction, relative to a comparison message defining harm reduction. The survey was fielded from September 16th to September28th, 2022 using the NORC Amerispeak probability-based online survey panel. The survey response rate was 74%. Measures included perceived effectiveness of standalone and integrated harm reduction programs, willingness to have a harm reduction program in the neighborhood or person using harm reduction services as a neighbor, and support for increasing government spending on harm reduction services. RESULTS 54.4% of respondents viewing the comparison message defining harm reduction reported that an integrated approach including harm reduction, addiction treatment, and other services is effective at reducing overdose, compared to 63.6%-69.1% of respondents viewing messages describing integrated programs (p<0.05). Messages depicting either standalone harm reduction or integrated programs lowered respondents' willingness to have a harm reduction program in their neighborhood, particularly when the messages depicted a Black person, versus a White person, benefiting from harm reduction. CONCLUSIONS Messages depicting programs offering integrated services including but not limited to harm reduction may heighten audience endorsement of the effectiveness of such an approach but lower willingness to have a harm reduction program in the neighborhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma E McGinty
- Division of Health Policy and Economics, Weill Cornell Medicine, 402 E. 67th St. New York, NY, United States.
| | - Sarah A White
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Susan G Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Rachel Lee
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alene Kennedy-Hendricks
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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7
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Miller NM, Campbell C, Shorter GW. Barriers and facilitators of naloxone and safe injection facility interventions to reduce opioid drug-related deaths: A qualitative analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 117:104049. [PMID: 37247475 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid drug-related deaths continue to be a significant public health concern in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) and Northern Ireland (NI). While both regions have implemented naloxone to reduce drug related deaths, there remains a gap in the implementation of a supervised injection facility (SIF). This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to implementing naloxone and a SIF to reduce opioid drug-related deaths in ROI and NI. METHODS Semi-structured interviews (n=23) were conducted in ROI and NI with experts by experience (n=8), staff from low threshold services (n=9), and individuals involved in policy making (n= 6). Data were analyzed using coding reliability Thematic Analysis and were informed by the Risk Environmental Framework. RESULTS The findings illustrated that stigma within the media, health centers, and the community was a significant barrier to naloxone distribution and SIF implementation. Policing and community intimidation were reported to hinder naloxone carriage in both the ROI and NI, while threats of paramilitary violence towards people who use drugs were unique to NI. Municipal government delays and policy maker apathy were reported to hinder SIF implementation in the ROI. Participants suggested peer-to-peer naloxone delivery and amending legislation to facilitate non-prescription naloxone would increase naloxone uptake. Participants recommended using webinars, Town Halls, and a Citizens' Assembly as tools to advocate for SIF implementation. CONCLUSION Local and regional stigma reduction campaigns are needed in conjunction with policy changes to advance naloxone and a SIF. Tailoring stigma campaigns to incorporate the lived experience of people who use drugs, their family members, and the general community can aid in educating the public and change negative perceptions. This study highlights the need for ongoing efforts to reduce stigma and increase accessibility to evidence-based interventions to address opioid drug-related deaths in the ROI, NI, and internationally.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gillian W Shorter
- Drug and Alcohol Research Network & Centre for Improving Health Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Effects of media representations of drug related deaths on public stigma and support for harm reduction. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 111:103909. [PMID: 36399962 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Drug related deaths (DRD) are at historically high levels in the United Kingdom (UK), but some approaches that have the potential to reduce risk of mortality remain controversial. Public support makes an important contribution to drug policy development but there are high levels of public stigma towards people who use drugs (PWUD), and this is partly shaped by media representations. We investigated whether depiction of the characteristics of decedents represented in news articles about DRD was associated with differences in stigmatising attitudes and support for harm reduction policy. METHODS We undertook a cross-sectional online study with a randomised design, conducted with a nationally representative sample (UK). Participants (N = 1280) were randomly presented with one of eight simulated news stories that reported on a DRD that differed with respect to drug (ecstasy or heroin), and the gender (male or female) and age (younger or older) of the decedent. Data were analysed using MANOVA. RESULTS Data were obtained for 1248 participants (51.0% female; mean age 45.7±15.4). Stigma was higher towards depictions of male, older, and heroin deaths (all p < .001). Harm reduction support was higher in those participants seeing older compared to younger subjects (p = .035), and the older ecstasy decedent compared to younger decedent (p = .029). CONCLUSION Presentation of some types of DRD are associated with higher public stigma towards the decedent than others. Those groups developing agenda-setting activities designed to reduce stigma or foster public support for harm reduction policies should consider the different ways in which audiences may respond to the depiction and framing of DRD in news media.
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Parkes T, Price T, Foster R, Trayner KMA, Sumnall HR, Livingston W, Perkins A, Cairns B, Dumbrell J, Nicholls J. 'Why would we not want to keep everybody safe?' The views of family members of people who use drugs on the implementation of drug consumption rooms in Scotland. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:99. [PMID: 36038919 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00679-5.pmid:36038919;pmcid:pmc9421633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs in Scotland are currently experiencing disproportionately high rates of drug-related deaths. Drug consumption rooms (DCRs) are harm reduction services that offer a safe, hygienic environment where pre-obtained drugs can be consumed under supervision. The aim of this research was to explore family member perspectives on DCR implementation in Scotland in order to inform national policy. METHODS Scotland-based family members of people who were currently or formerly using drugs were invited to take part in semi-structured interviews to share views on DCRs. An inclusive approach to 'family' was taken, and family members were recruited via local and national networks. A convenience sample of 13 family members were recruited and interviews conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically using the Structured Framework Technique. RESULTS Family members demonstrated varying levels of understanding regarding the existence, role, and function of DCRs. While some expressed concern that DCRs would not prevent continued drug use, all participants were in favour of DCR implementation due to a belief that DCRs could reduce harm, including saving lives, and facilitate future recovery from drug use. Participants highlighted challenges faced by people who use drugs in accessing treatment/services that could meet their needs. They identified that accessible and welcoming DCRs led by trusting and non-judgemental staff could help to meet unmet needs, including signposting to other services. Family members viewed DCRs as safe environments and highlighted how the existence of DCRs could reduce the constant worry that they had of risk of harm to their loved ones. Finally, family members emphasised the challenge of stigma associated with drug use. They believed that introduction of DCRs would help to reduce stigma and provide a signal that people who use drugs deserve safety and care. CONCLUSIONS Reporting the experience and views of family members makes a novel and valuable contribution to ongoing public debates surrounding DCRs. Their views can be used to inform the implementation of DCRs in Scotland but also relate well to the development of wider responses to drug-related harm and reduction of stigma experienced by people who use drugs in Scotland and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK.
| | - Tracey Price
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - Rebecca Foster
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - Kirsten M A Trayner
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Harry R Sumnall
- Liverpool John Moores University, Public Health Institute, Liverpool, Scotland, UK
| | - Wulf Livingston
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Glyndwr University, Wrexham, Wales, UK
| | | | - Beth Cairns
- Figure 8 Consultancy Ltd, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Josh Dumbrell
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - James Nicholls
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
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Parkes T, Price T, Foster R, Trayner KMA, Sumnall HR, Livingston W, Perkins A, Cairns B, Dumbrell J, Nicholls J. 'Why would we not want to keep everybody safe?' The views of family members of people who use drugs on the implementation of drug consumption rooms in Scotland. Harm Reduct J 2022; 19:99. [PMID: 36038919 PMCID: PMC9421633 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-022-00679-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs in Scotland are currently experiencing disproportionately high rates of drug-related deaths. Drug consumption rooms (DCRs) are harm reduction services that offer a safe, hygienic environment where pre-obtained drugs can be consumed under supervision. The aim of this research was to explore family member perspectives on DCR implementation in Scotland in order to inform national policy. METHODS Scotland-based family members of people who were currently or formerly using drugs were invited to take part in semi-structured interviews to share views on DCRs. An inclusive approach to 'family' was taken, and family members were recruited via local and national networks. A convenience sample of 13 family members were recruited and interviews conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically using the Structured Framework Technique. RESULTS Family members demonstrated varying levels of understanding regarding the existence, role, and function of DCRs. While some expressed concern that DCRs would not prevent continued drug use, all participants were in favour of DCR implementation due to a belief that DCRs could reduce harm, including saving lives, and facilitate future recovery from drug use. Participants highlighted challenges faced by people who use drugs in accessing treatment/services that could meet their needs. They identified that accessible and welcoming DCRs led by trusting and non-judgemental staff could help to meet unmet needs, including signposting to other services. Family members viewed DCRs as safe environments and highlighted how the existence of DCRs could reduce the constant worry that they had of risk of harm to their loved ones. Finally, family members emphasised the challenge of stigma associated with drug use. They believed that introduction of DCRs would help to reduce stigma and provide a signal that people who use drugs deserve safety and care. CONCLUSIONS Reporting the experience and views of family members makes a novel and valuable contribution to ongoing public debates surrounding DCRs. Their views can be used to inform the implementation of DCRs in Scotland but also relate well to the development of wider responses to drug-related harm and reduction of stigma experienced by people who use drugs in Scotland and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Parkes
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK.
| | - Tracey Price
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - Rebecca Foster
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - Kirsten M A Trayner
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Harry R Sumnall
- Liverpool John Moores University, Public Health Institute, Liverpool, Scotland, UK
| | - Wulf Livingston
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Glyndwr University, Wrexham, Wales, UK
| | | | - Beth Cairns
- Figure 8 Consultancy Ltd, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Josh Dumbrell
- Salvation Army Centre for Addiction Services and Research, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
| | - James Nicholls
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, UK
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Nicholls J, Livingston W, Perkins A, Cairns B, Foster R, Trayner KMA, Sumnall HR, Price T, Cairney P, Dumbrell J, Parkes T. Drug Consumption Rooms and Public Health Policy: Perspectives of Scottish Strategic Decision-Makers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116575. [PMID: 35682161 PMCID: PMC9180147 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
There is widespread support for the introduction of Drug Consumption Rooms (DCRs) in Scotland as part of a policy response to record levels of drug-related harm. However, existing legal barriers are made more complex by the division of relevant powers between the UK and Scottish Governments. This paper reports on a national, qualitative study of key decision-makers in both local and national roles across Scotland. It explores views on the political barriers and enablers to the adoption of Drug Consumption Rooms and the potential role of these facilities in the wider treatment system. It also considers approaches to evidence, especially the types of evidence that are considered valuable in supporting decision-making in this area. The study found that Scottish decision-makers are strongly supportive of DCR adoption; however, they remain unclear as to the legal and political mechanisms that would make this possible. They view DCRs as part of a complex treatment and support system rather than a uniquely transformative intervention. They see the case for introduction as sufficient, on the basis of need and available evidence, thus adopting a pragmatic and iterative approach to evidence, in contrast to an appeal to traditional evidence hierarchies more commonly adopted by the UK Government.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Nicholls
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Wulf Livingston
- Faculty of Social and Life Sciences, Glyndwr University, Wrexham LL11 2AW, UK;
| | - Andy Perkins
- Figure 8 Consultancy, Dundee DD4 0HU, UK; (A.P.); (B.C.)
| | - Beth Cairns
- Figure 8 Consultancy, Dundee DD4 0HU, UK; (A.P.); (B.C.)
| | - Rebecca Foster
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK; (R.F.); (T.P.); (J.D.); (T.P.)
| | - Kirsten M. A. Trayner
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK;
| | - Harry R. Sumnall
- Faculty of Health, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L2 2QB, UK;
| | - Tracey Price
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK; (R.F.); (T.P.); (J.D.); (T.P.)
| | - Paul Cairney
- Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK;
| | - Josh Dumbrell
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK; (R.F.); (T.P.); (J.D.); (T.P.)
| | - Tessa Parkes
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK; (R.F.); (T.P.); (J.D.); (T.P.)
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Gehring ND, Speed KA, Launier K, O'Brien D, Campbell S, Hyshka E. The state of science on including inhalation within supervised consumption services: A scoping review of academic and grey literature. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 102:103589. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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