Basic principle

Harm reduction is based on the principle that every substance user has the ability to intervene in his or her use. Every substance user also has the ability to unlock, strengthen and develop this potential.

Africa

In December 2009 Mainline researched the living circumstances of drug users in the Kenian cities of Nairobi and Mombassa. Unfortunately there is insufficient attention for harm reduction and the rights of drug users, most of whom smoke heroin.

India

In Delhi, HIV is rapidly spreading among drug users. These people often do not have access to healthcare, let alone medicines. They also generally do not have the money to buy enough food or healthy food, whereas HIV inhibitors only work in combination with a balanced diet.

In Delhi, Mainline works with the local organisation Sharan Society for Service to Urban Poverty to develop a continuum of care for HIV-infected drug users and former drug users. By providing information and agricultural training, drug users and former drug users are able to reintegrate into society.

In 2009 Sharan laid down several concrete targets. They aim to help at least 1800 drug users and former drug users before 2011. Former drug users will receive training in activities that generate income – agriculture for example. Drug users and former drug users will stay at a farm and be given the opportunity to exchange experiences. Contraceptives will also be handed out to participants. People with AIDS will receive medication and extra food to enable the HIV inhibitors to do their work.

Visit the website of the Sharan organisation ››

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Bhutan

Mainline recently researched the situation of drug users in Thimpu, the main capital of Bhutan. We gave several short training to a variety of organisations that work with drug users.

Contact

Care providers who have good, professional contact with their clients, generally observe better results, and take more pleasure in their work. This Mainline training teaches care professionals the specific skills required to establish good contact with substance users.