Have Your Say!

Hi and Welcome to The Drop!

My name is Sorcha and I’m the ‘Festival and Nightclub Harm Reduction Lead’ at Bristol Drugs Project. Having started in this role in November, I spent the winter months learning the ropes at BDP, booking slots at some of Bristol’s biggest and best events, dreaming of a summer dancing to some of my favourite bands and DJs. But alas, the world had other plans…

Covid hit and it quickly became clear that this summer was going to be completely devoid of sound systems, dancefloors and dirty porta-loos. All the events we had planned were either cancelled or postponed and my role quickly shifted towards supporting Bristol’s most vulnerable drug taking community who had been housed in temporary accommodation due to the pandemic. It’s been a challenging few months but I am so proud to have been part of this response and am in awe of the dedication and adaptability of everyone at BDP.

this time I have looked to develop what support we can offer to people who use party drugs, both recreationally and problematically. ‘The Drop’ was born and I’ve been writing weekly blogs about various topics such as safer partying during Covid through to, how to get your drugs tested. I launched our Twitter, relaunched our Instagram and set up our WhatsApp (07814617687, messages answered 9-5 Monday – Friday) so you can contact us in more ways than ever before. I’m also working with the University of Bristol and UWE to develop our dedicated support for students who use drugs or are affected by the drug use of someone else.

The next stage is to plan what The Drop will become once nightclubs reopen, festivals return and face to face contact becomes more feasible. As a harm reduction service we recognise that our target audience (you!) understand what support you need better than we ever can. That’s why we’re launching a survey where you can have your say on what services and support you would like so we can provide a service that best meets your needs. If you would like to be involved, follow this link. If you provide us with contact details at the end you will be entered into a prize draw (prize TBC).

Whilst I won’t be seeing any of you on Bristol’s dancefloors just yet, please get in touch if you’re struggling with your drug use, if you’re concerned about a mate or you just want some advice on how to stay safe next time you use drugs. We’re here to help in whatever way we can.

Stay safe,

Sorcha x