Drug Consumption Room is set to open in Glasgow, ScotlandCredit: correlation-net.org
While this may seem like a big step for the UK, it is fair to say that when it comes to the use of Drug Consumption Rooms (DCRs), they are very late to the party.
In fact, there are currently 16 countries globally that offer these facilities. For those who enjoy specifics, the countries I am referring to are Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Mexico and the US. Slovenia was the most recent to offer this facility, making it available on November 14 2023.
Now, Glasgow in Scotland is set to join this list of pioneering countries by opening its first DCR on Monday January 13 2025. It will be known as The Thistle and will be housed at Hunter Street in the east end. There was hope that it would have been able to open last year but water and ventilation system issues meant it had to be delayed.
What is a Drug Consumption Room?
For those wondering what exactly a ‘Drug Consumption Room’ is, it is described as a safe place where drug users can take illegal substances under the supervision of a medical professional. Aside from the obvious hygiene benefits, it also offers a safe haven free from fear of violence, judgement or legal ramifications.
Naturally, the health professional hopes that it provides them with an opportunity to educate and offer support in combating drug addictions. In addition, they are on hand to intervene in the event of a drug overdose or other drug-related medical complications. In fact, Spain first introduced DCRs back in the year 2000, having noticed that drug use was becoming a rapidly growing problem in the 1990s. Specifically, they felt it offered a way to fight against the number of deaths caused by overdose and HIV.
A Drug Consumption Room for Glasgow first proposed in 2016
As for Scotland, it has taken them some time to reach this point as it was first proposed back in 2016. As you can imagine, the councillor behind the introduction of the facility, Allan Casey, is ecstatic that it will finally become a reality.
He said, “We are obviously delighted that the required tests have now concluded, and the facility can open. We have been pushing for a safer drug consumption facility for some time. It’s a welcome relief to know we can finally have people in to access the service and support available within the Thistle.
“We know from all the other safer drug consumption rooms in operation across the world that they do make a difference.”
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