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.

Nepal

Since 2006 Mainline has supported the work of the Nepalese organisation Youth Vision. In different areas in Nepal, Youth Vision tries to make healthcare more accessible for drug users. On a local level, the organisation works closely with other organisations like Dristi Nepal – which primarily focuses its efforts on female drug users – and the Wisdom Foundation in Jhapa, Birgunj and Bhairahawa. Youth Vision has successfully introduced oral substitution therapy in Nepal. This form of therapy has now been accepted by the Nepalese Minister of Public Health.

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.