Harm Reduction (NSP)

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The NSW Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) is an evidence-based public health program that aims to reduce the transmission of infections such as HIV and hepatitis C among people who inject drugs. NSP outlets provide sterile injecting equipment such as needles and syringes, Fitpacks and other injecting equipment (such as swabs, water, spoons and cotton balls) as well as disposal facilities free of charge.

NSP outlets are staffed by specialist workers who provide access to sterile injecting equipment, promote safe disposal practices and facilitate referrals to health, welfare and community services as needed.

Due to the current COVID-19 situation, we’ve adopted a number new Covid-19 safe service measures, so we can assist you better:

Harm Reduction/NSP will continue to offer FREE bulk delivery (HARP staff assisted) to clients who request stock. A dedicated mobile number: 0417 062 265 is available for communities across MNC and NNSW LHDs during Monday to Friday 8:30am – 5pm hours. We’re working hard to respond to your requests so please give us as much notice as possible. Please call us on 0417 062 265 to arrange free and discreet access to bulk equipment
the NSP distributes new injecting equipment in lots of places – to find an NSP near you visit: NSW Needle and Syringe Program (NSP). The vending machines are available 24 hours a day. Some chemists also supply new injecting equipment
all major staffed NSP outlets will continue to provide Harm Reduction services with current COVID19 safety measures in place
given the current COVID-19 pandemic, there may be limited access or additional basic health screening in place at Emergency Departments (EDs) as well as Community Health Centres before collecting fit-packs. However, all hospitals and health sites across the North Coast will continue to provide free or subsidised fit packs that are available via vending machines, self-help free dispensers/Chutes and or staff assisted distribution points
Harm Reduction/NSP will continue to coordinate the Needle Clean Up Hotline (1800 633 353) response across MNC and NNSW communities with support from North Coast Environmental Health team. If you have found discarded needles and syringes please call the Needle Clean-up Hotline on 1800 633 353
for information and help if you have concerns about alcohol and other drugs visit the Alcohol and Drug Information Service or call them on 1800 422 599.