Needle exchanges

Sharing or reusing needles can cause serious health problems for drug users. Re-using old or dirty needles can lead to skin and blood infections as they let germs get into the blood or under the skin. Sharing needles carries the risk of cross-infection if the person you are sharing with has a blood-borne illness such as hepatitis or HIV. If you are injecting drugs, it's important to always use your own needles, and never share them with anyone else. However, many drug users find it hard to obtain a supply of clean needles. 

A needle exchange is a service where intravenous drug users (people who inject drugs such as heroin) can get clean needles and syringes, and safely dispose of used needles. Staff at needle exchanges will also be able to give you advice on your drug use, help you get into a rehab programme if you want to, and give you general advice on your health and wellbeing

Most needle exchanges are in pharmacies, and will be staffed by a qualified pharmacist. 

Your local needle exchange

BOB (Build on Belief)  is a peer-led website for anyone living in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, or Hammersmith and Fulham, who is affected by problems with alcohol or substance misuse. It provides a wealth of information and advice, with details of local support groups and services.