Safe Consumption Spaces and Drug User Preferences

Abstract

To combat the opioid epidemic, some cities in the United States are beginning to lay the ground work to open Safe Consumption Spaces (SCSs). SCSs are facilities for people to consume their drugs under the supervision of a medical professional in a clean environment with sanitary equipment. Many SCSs also provide social and medical services as well as access to drug treatment. As Seattle prepares to open its own Safe Consumption Space (SCS), this research explores drug user interest and preferences for a SCS at a local needle exchange. Needle exchange participants were surveyed to determine if they are interested in using a SCS. Following the survey, four focus groups were held to determine other preferences for the space, including days and hours of operation, additional health and social services, aspects of the physical space, and rules. Thematic analysis of the focus groups determined that participants are looking for a community space where they can consume their drugs safely, semi-privately and without judgement from service providers and peers. This is a different model than the medical model offered at SCSs currently. Further research is needed to determine women’s and smokers’ needs in SCSs.