Fifty to sixty percent of Dutch detainees use drugs or has done so in the past. Drug use often continues within detention facilities. Infectious diseases can be transferred anywhere but pose more of a risk in prison.

Direct contact with substance users enables outreach workers from Mainline to point out and analyse new developments in different user groups. Mainline also conducts small-scale research to monitor the needs of different user groups, for which outreach workers gather data in the field.

As a result of streetwalker districts being shut down and stricter police policy it can be difficult for regular social workers and healthcare professionals to monitor the working conditions, health and high-risk behaviour of female substance users. Mainline regularly seeks contact with this extra vulnerable group.

Mainline also offers support in easily-accessible healthcare and treatment facilities. During visits to streetwalker districts, it actively encourages discussions with users. These discussions are aimed at increasing the abilities of these users to steer their own futures.

Mainline offers support to streetwalker districts through its participation in the National Consultation on Streetwalkers’ Districts.