Harm reduction and Needle Syringe Programme (NSP)
The Harm Reduction and Needle Syringe Programme (NSP) service situated in Unit 7 Cookson House offers advice, information and equipment to adults aged 18 and over who are using a range of substances including IPED. We provide a confidential walk-in service in a safe space – a short registration is completed on your first visit – initials and date of birth are taken or if you prefer to remain anonymous this is also possible. The service can also support you to access support and treatment when you are ready. We are open Monday to Friday 9:30 – 16:30 and you can contact us directly on 07889 804246.
NSP aims to:
- Ensure full and equitable reach of comprehensive harm reduction services to all who use substances.
- Reduce stigma and discrimination against people who use drugs.
- Reduce the incidence of substance-related health and social harms, including the transmission of blood-borne viruses (BBVs).
- Provide equipment that meets national best practice standards, for example, low dead space syringes.
- Provide safe disposal of used/no longer required equipment.
- Provide information on the safe use and disposal of equipment.
- Provide pharmacy NSP grab pack provision.
- Provide take-home naloxone (THN) – injectable and nasal.
- Provide BBV testing and pathway into treatment for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV.
- Provide referral/signposting for Hep A/B vaccinations.
- Provide condoms and STI self-testing kits.
- Provide period products.
- Raise awareness about how to reduce the risk of drug-related harms including injection site infections, overdoses and how to manage them, including the use of THN.
- Promote and facilitate referrals to additional sources of support and advice as needed, including the provision of clear and concise pathways into e.g. specialist substance misuse treatment services, primary care, dentistry, sexual health, mental health services, outreach services, homeless services and hostels.
Our Pharmacy NSP provision based in South Shields (Boldon Lane), Hebburn and Jarrow provides grab packs which contain set equipment, advice and information. If you require additional/alternative equipment you can access this at the main Harm Reduction and NSP service in Unit 7 Cookson House.
Pharmacy NSP locations:
Avicenna Boldon Lane Pharmacy
59 Boldon Lane
South Shields
NE34 0AT
Phone: (0191) 4553222
Monday to Friday: 9:00 – 18:00
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Avicenna Hebburn Health Centre Pharmacy
Campbell Park Road
Hebburn
NE31 2SP
Phone: (0191) 4834371
Monday-Friday: 9:00 – 18:00
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Boustead Chemist
187 Albert Road
Jarrow
NE32 5AF
Phone: (0191) 4897477
Monday-Friday: 9:00 – 17:00
Saturday: 9:00 – 16:00
Sunday: Closed
