Harm Reduction

Streetworks defines Harm Reduction as:

Harm Reduction is a comprehensive, just, and science-based approach to substance
use. The principles can also apply to activities such as sex work. It represents policies, strategies, and services, which aim to assist people who use legal and illegal psychoactive drugs to live safer and healthier lives.

All substances have both positive and negative effects, and substance use may affect one’s health and legal vulnerability. It is clear that most people who use substances do not experience problems, but in some circumstances, substance use can become dependent and/or chaotic.  Harm Reduction recognizes that people use drugs for many reasons. Reduction of substance use and/or abstinence is not required in order to receive respect, compassion or services.

Harm Reduction enhances the ability of people who use substances to have increased control over their lives and their health, and allows them to take protective and proactive measures for themselves, their families and their communities.

It opens the door and welcomes people to become as safe and healthy as possible.

It is beyond a set of activities and programs but speaks to the approach, mindset, and attitude that strives to respect the Human Rights of individuals, consider people’s strengths, recognizes and addresses any barriers, and treats all people with respect and compassion.