A brave idea with tangible results
The idea of buying alcohol for people with severe dependence might seem a strange one to many. The outreach team in Bristol (p6) are well enough tuned to harm reduction to know that their life-saving actions during lockdown have opened up many opportunities. It’s a brave idea and the tangible results of their initiative speak for themselves.
Practitioners know what works – as do many senior figures in police and criminal justice. On the eve of his retirement, PCC David Jamieson reiterated his plea for change to parliamentarians, backed by a clear set of recommendations that are being shown to save lives. Are politicians appreciating the fact that these measures are supremely cost effective in protecting the public and saving money – as well as the lives of so many vulnerable people? What more can we do to get the message across?
Tackling stigma is a very obvious part of this (p12), and we can all do our bit. It’s not just about minding language, but about mutual respect, being wary of making assumptions, and keeping an open mind – from treatment options to considering new ideas. We hope this month’s issue gives food for thought and look forward to your views.
Read the April issue as an online magazine or download the PDF
Claire Brown, editor
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