Turning Point’s Herefordshire recovery service has introduced a delivery service for naloxone kits in Herefordshire. Naloxone is a critical first aid medication that can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, potentially saving lives in emergency situations.
The Click & Deliver programme by Turning Point’s Herefordshire drug and alcohol recovery service offers individuals the convenience of having naloxone kits delivered to a location of their choice. This service comes as a solution to the challenges of accessing naloxone kits, which were previously available only through select drug treatment providers and pharmacies, posing barriers for many in need.
Understanding the necessity for accessibility, Turning Point recognised the diverse needs of individuals, including those with mobility issues, residents in rural areas with limited service availability, and family members of individuals at risk of overdose who may face stigma concerns.
The success of a similar postal naloxone service in Scotland and Wales inspired Turning Point to pilot the Click & Deliver programme in England, starting at the Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service. The initiative proved highly successful, with over 140 kits distributed and at least three instances reported of naloxone being used to reverse overdoses and save lives.
Highlighting the impact of this initiative, Michael*, an experienced first aid volunteer, shared his experience of administering naloxone to an individual in need. Through Click & Deliver, individuals like Michael* can access naloxone training and kits easily, enabling them to respond effectively during overdose emergencies.
‘I regularly deliver basic first aid to people in need but had never been able to access naloxone training. In October, I placed the Click & Deliver order for naloxone through Turning Point and received training on how to administer it over the phone.
‘In March this year, I made a second Click & Deliver order as I needed to replace the kit as I had used it on someone who had overdosed. I had been out and came across someone who was unresponsive. Recognising the signs of an opiate overdose, I called an ambulance and administered naloxone and the person was taken to hospital.
‘When I ordered the replacement naloxone, I requested a carry case to make sure the kit was always at hand if I needed it again.’
The ambition is to expand the Click & Deliver programme across all its services by the end of the year to ensure broader access to naloxone.
Deb Hussey, Turning Point’s National Safer Lives Lead, emphasised the importance of making naloxone easily accessible to combat the rising risks associated with synthetic opioids.
‘With the increasing risk from potent synthetic opioids, it’s never been more important to make it as easy as possible for people to access naloxone. By removing the barriers experienced by some, Click & Deliver helps us raise awareness and make sure we’re getting naloxone into the hands of the people who need it. This will save lives.’
If you are in the Herefordshire area, click to find out how to order your naloxone kit.
*real name changed
This blog was originally published by Turning Point. You can read the original post here.
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