Services Database Naloxone Distribution (Manchester Area)

Aims
a. To reduce drug-related harm and deaths caused by opioid overdose by increasing
awareness of symptoms of opioid overdose together with the knowledge and means
to respond in an emergency.

Objectives
a. To increase overdose awareness knowledge, informing clients and appropriate
others about harm reduction and the benefits of Naloxone to help reduce the rate of
drug related deaths associated with opiate use. We know that most fatal overdoses
can be avoided with certain interventions. Risks relating to opioid overdoses can
include:

• Injecting alone
• History of a recent non-fatal overdose
• Other drugs in use
• Not being in treatment
• Other people present not recognising the signs of overdose

b. To actively identify opportunities to supply suitable clients with Naloxone through
engagement in community pharmacy. This service is particularly aimed at those
accessing needle exchange and/or opioid substitution therapy. However, it can also
include other contacts such family, friends, carers, hostel managers or anyone
witnessing a potential overdose. Anyone can administer Naloxone for the purpose of
saving a life.
c. To help individuals access treatment services by signposting to the integrated drug
and alcohol service in Manchester and health and social care professionals where
appropriate.
d. To maximise the access and retention of people who use drugs, particularly those
not already engaged in treatment services, highly socially excluded, homeless, and
other vulnerable groups.
e. To identify drug users and provide harm reduction advice.
f. To help individuals using this service to access other health and social care services
if required.
g. To provide baseline information in relation to the demand for the service.