N.S. funding overdose prevention sites for Halifax and Sydney
Global News
Nova Scotia is establishing two overdose prevention sites in Halifax and Sydney that will be safe spaces for users. On-site testing will ensure the user's supply isn't tainted.
Nova Scotia is establishing two overdose prevention sites (OPS) in Halifax and Sydney.
One will operate out of Direction 180, a Mi’kmaw Friendship Centre Program in Halifax. The other will be in the Ally Centre in Sydney.
This will be the first overdose prevention center in Cape Breton. Ally Centre Executive Director Christine Porter, says opening one on the island is crucial especially with the toxic drug supply that has been going around.
“We’re seeing a lot of fentanyl-laced cocaine and a lot of bootlegged pills that are pressed and not from a pharmacy. I think it’s a prime time to get the OPS running so people can use it in a safe place. It will keep people alive.”
The province’s $500,000 dollar funding will be distributed equally to the two sites, over a two-year period. It will provide individuals who use substances, a safe atmosphere, and will help link them with necessary support systems. There will also be testing available on-site to ensure the supply isn’t tainted.
“OPS sites are normally run by people with lived experience. They will be very well trained and will have three rotating staff and a peer on every day,” said Porter.
Having a safe consumption site is no different than going to drink at a bar, says Ashton Manktelow, an Outreach Worker with Mainline, a health promotion organization dedicated to supporting people who use substances through harm reduction programs.
“A bar in itself is a safe consumption site. You can go there, have a beer, as many as you like. And, in the event that you get too intoxicated there’s someone there to look after you.” he said.
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