Needle Exchange

This service is designed to address the needs of substance misusers who regularly require fresh, sterile hypodermic syringes and needles to sustain their addiction. Once used, the syringes and needles are returned to the pharmacy in exchange for new ones.

It has been implemented to protect the wider community from infectious diseases such as hepatitis which can be spread from contaminated injecting equipment.

We also promote safe practice to the user i.e. provide advice on sexually transmitted infections (STIs ) , HIV , hepatitis C transmission and hepatitis B vaccination.

Features:

The Pharmacy will provide access to sterile needles and syringes, and sharps containers for return of used equipment. Where agreed locally, associated materials, for example condoms, citric acid and swabs, to promote safe injecting practice and reduce transmission of infections by substance misusers will be provided.

The Pharmacy will offer a user friendly, non-judgmental, client centred and confidential service.

Used equipment is normally returned by the service user for safe disposal.

The service user will be provided with appropriate health promotion materials.

The Pharmacy will provide support and advice to the user, including referral to other health and social care professionals and specialist drug and alcohol treatment services where appropriate.

Contact us to find out more about needle exchange in Surrey.