Harm reduction

To avoid increased health risks associated with taking drugs, it is safer not to inject or to use alternative methods of taking drugs. However, some people are not in this position so the following advice is important:

• We strongly advise all injectors to seek professional advice throughout the time you are injecting
• In-depth safer injecting and harm reduction information and advice is available on the With You – Safer injecting website
• Wash your hands before preparing works
• Always use a new, sterile needle and equipment
• Never share any equipment or works
• Find a hygienic area to prepare
• Cleanse the part of your body where you are going to inject
• Find your nearest needle and syringe service on the With You website
• Find out about clinical collections by Torbay Council

• Snorting: use your own straws – don’t use notes or keys
• Smoking: use your own pipes – don’t share cigarettes, roll-ups, vapes or foil
• Injecting: use your own needles and spoons

Blood Borne Viruses (BBVs) are mainly found in blood or bodily fluids. The main BBVs of concern are Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. This is because of the damage they can do to the liver and the body’s ability to fight off infections. Rates of infection with blood-borne viruses are high among people with drug use disorders, specifically those who inject drugs which is why we can help you get tested and where applicable, immunised.