Services Database Needle & Syringe Programme (Blackburn with Darwen Area)

The pharmacy needle & syringe programme (NSP) will provide a user-friendly, non-judgmental, client-centred and confidential service to drug using service users requiring access to sterile needles, syringes, and sharps containers (for safe return and disposal of used equipment). Service users will also be provided with appropriate health promotion materials and publications supplied through the Harm Reduction Service.

The Harm Reduction Service will provide training to ensure that pharmacists and staff involved in the provision of the service have the relevant knowledge and are appropriately trained in the operation of the service (this will include attendance at DAAT tier 1 training sessions and specialist training re: BBVs and safer injecting).

All pharmacists operating within the NSP need to have successfully completed the CPPE Substance Use and Misuse open learning programme and accompanying assessment.

In addition pharmacists must also complete:

• CPPE – Child Protection Open Learning Pack/e-learning assessment (or any other training course/s provided that have the equivalent knowledge and learning outcomes outlined within the HAG framework); and
• specific locally delivered training commissioned provided by the Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council.

To support pharmacy team members in the delivery of a safe and effective NSP, pharmacists may find it helpful to signpost staff to the following associated CPPE learning programme:

• CPPE - Substance use and misuse: fundamentals and practicalities for the pharmacy technicians