South East Alcohol and Drug Services acting director Debra Alexander, program manager community and outreach Kaylene Rowe, team leader Anglicare Vic and CFC Plus Clare Camm, and team leader needle and syringe program Troy Waddell celebrate the opening of a new drop in area at the Needle Syringe Exchange Program in Dandenong.
By Nicole Williams
DANDENONG’S Needle Syringe Exchange Program has undergone a make-over.
The centre, on Foster Street, refurbished their exchange centre and added a drop in area that they have termed ‘Our Space’.
Kaylene Rowe, program manager community and outreach of South East Alcohol and Drug Services, said the area will be a starting point for people unsure where to go.
“It’s designed to be able to have a worker provide information, resources and telephone numbers for people wanting to access further treatment,” Ms Rowe said.
“You get a very short window of opportunity sometimes and they might not react to it but we’re in a position where we can provide.”
She said the space would also provide clients with a place to sit and take five minutes for themselves, in a safe environment.
“We can just provide somewhere to come and sit down and take a breather.”
‘Our Space’ includes a place to sit and facilities to make a hot drink, and will run regular group sessions to provide information on harm reduction, overdose prevention and sexual health.
Ms Rowe said they were also trying to change the perception of a needle syringe program as a dodgy place.
“I think sometimes needle syringe exchange programs are perceived as dingy,” she said.
“We’ve tried to open the area and provide a space that is confidential but also a safe place for the clients.”
‘Our Space’ is manned by staff and will run from Monday to Friday 11am to 2pm.
