West Coast Outreach Service

INTRODUCTION

The 2002 NEP (Needle Exchange Programme) Review conclusions and recommendations

emphasised the need to increase the availability and accessibility of the NEP (coverage) in

specfic areas in New Zealand one of which was the West Coast of the South Island.

 

In February 2004 the Ministry of Health funded a pilot programme through the

Rodger Wright Centre (RWC), to provide a Rural Outreach Needle Exchange

service to the West Coast of the South Island.

 

Prior to the implementation of the West Coast Service the RWC recruited 'Key Contacts'

living on the West Coast within the existing clientele of its Christchurch Centre.

 

This is a free 1-4-1 service, i.e. a client must return their used harm reduction kit in order to

pick up a new harm reduction kit.

 

During the run, the RWC picks up all used equipment and it is brought back to

Christchurch for destruction.

 

RWC West Coast Rural Outreach workers can meet a Key Contact (person) at any meeting

place they feel most comfortable handing out Harm Reduction kits. This service also offers up

to date information and education on safer drug use and safe sex techniques, blood borne viruses

such as Hepatitis C & B and HIV, support, advice and referrals to the appropriate relevant services.

 

 

HOW THE SERVICE WORKS

 

The service is for any individuals on the West Coast 16 years and over who choose to use drugs.

 

WHAT DOES THE SERVICE OFFER?

 

The service supplies free-of-charge clean needles and syringes and other drug-related

paraphernalia, condoms and lube along with peer education, drug lifestyle counselling

and individual support. Clients are also offered up-to-date information on

Hepatitis C and B and HIV/Aids and how to access support networks.

 

HOW DO I ACCESS THIS SERVICE?

 

Contact the Rodger Wright Centre between the hours of 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Ask to speek to the Manager or the Outreach Worker.

Phone: (03) 365 2293

Phone/Text: 027 343 9023

Email: outreach@rwc.org.nz

 

COST

 

This is a free service

 

WILL ANYONE KNOW I AM ACCESSING THIS SERVICE?

 

The Rodger Wright Centre West Coast Outreach Service runs a discreet, confidential

and anonymous service. This means that only the Manager or the Outreach Worker

will have access to your name, address and phone number. You can give a false name

if you wish.

An unmarked white van (no signage) will visit your home or place of your choice to

deliver equipment. There is little risk of your neighbours knowing who we are.

 

HOW OFTEN CAN I GET EQUIPMENT?

 

The Rodger Wright Outreach Service visits the West Coast once a month.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

For more information - email - outreach@rwc.org.

Ph: (03) 365 2293

Ph /Text: 027 343 9023