116. Reducing drug harms in the UK with Dr Gillian Shorter and Prof Alex Stevens

In this episode, Prof Nutt meets with Prof Alex Stevens, researcher in drug policy, treatment and harm reduction and Gillian Shorter, a researcher into the health and wellbeing of people who use alcohol and drugs. In this episode they discuss harm reduction strategies in the UK. They delve into the root causes of the stigma surrounding substance use disorders and explore the effectiveness of various harm reduction approaches, such as needle exchange programs and drug consumption rooms. The conversation also considers the politics surrounding these strategies and the limitations imposed by the Misuse of Drugs Act.   Drug consumption Rooms BBCDrug Science Enhanced Harm Reduction Working Group Needle ExchangeNaloxoneDrug Consumption Room High Tolerance Housing The Merseyside Model Drug TestingDrug Testing KitsInternational Harm Reduction Association HIV and AIDSOpiate Substitution Therapy Winter Comfort Case Support the Podcast ★ Support this podcast ★

Om Podcasten

Professor David Nutt has spent a career making the argument for a rational, evidence-based approach to drug policy and drug use. The scientific evidence still challenges perceived wisdom on drugs and for that reason can appear to be contentious. In this podcast, the Professor explores the actual harms and potential benefits of various drugs, challenging myths surrounding classification and legislation, and exploring the societal impact of poorly informed drug policy. Using evidence in public policy should not be controversial. A podcast for anyone interested in understanding the scientific truth about drugs, free from political or moral concern.