Needle Exchange

The Needle Exchange exists to provide sterile injecting equipment and some associated paraphernalia; i.e. sterile swabs and safe disposal bins to injecting drug users, providing information about harm minimisation and health related issues.  Condoms and advice regarding safe sex practices are also available, plus a referral to genito-urinary medicine if necessary.

New clients wishing to use the Needle Exchange will be asked to provide three initials and a date of birth as form of identification. New clients are also asked to complete an assessment form. The main purpose of this assessment is to discuss any health concerns as well as providing information about blood borne viruses and to generally promote awareness of the services offered at Open Road and in the wider community.

Clients can expect confidentiality in accordance with the Open Road policy. Only staff and Volunteers who have completed a training programme and are deemed competent and confident to do so will be expected to facilitate the needle exchange.

All outgoings and returns are recorded for statistical purposes and we do have a very high rate of return, currently a healthy 92%.