Getting Drug Users Involved: Good Practice in Local Treatment and Planning

• NCJ Number: 179089
• Author(s): Stephanie Hamilton; Annette Dale-Perera; Andria Efthimiou-Mordaunt; Michael Fry
• Editor(s): Alison Dewar, Ann Farr
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 25 pages
• Sale Source: Standing Conference on Drug Abuse (SCODA)
• Publication Format: Book (Softbound)
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom
• Note: DCC

Annotation

This report describes getting drug users involved in the development and operation of drug treatment programs.

Abstract

Some of the best initiatives in the drugs field were first put forward by drug users themselves; their experiences and opinions can be used in the planning and development of services. Ultimately, the rights of drug users encompass more than treatment needs. The way drug users are handled in prison, provision of education, training and employment opportunities, and access to housing are also important. Building self-esteem and working towards a positive future can only happen when those basic rights are respected. Good practice to help improve user consultation and involvement emphasizes four main areas: (1) involving drug users in their own care; (2) consulting them about drug services; (3) developing user-led, advocacy and self-help initiatives; and (4) consulting drug users about local area service planning. Figures, bibliography