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ID: HR19-206

Presenting author: Em Pijl

Presenting author biography:

Dr. Em M. Pijl is an assistant professor at the University of Lethbridge (Alberta). Her program of research focuses on homeless, substance-using, and at-risk populations. Through various research projects such as the Urban Social Issues Survey, Dr. Pijl is exploring the impacts of harm reduction programs on surrounding communities.

Enhancing the Acceptability of Supervised Consumption Services in Canadian Neighbourhoods: Opportunities for Relationship, Mitigation and Education

Em Pijl, Stacey Bourque, George Kuhl

Background: Supervised consumption services (SCS) are an important harm reduction intervention that is not always readily accepted by the immediate neighbourhood. As such, advocates of SCS often face challenges in siting and operating these facilities. In 2018 an SCS opened in a mid-sized Canadian city, amidst concerns about the facility’s potential impact on the surrounding business district. Previous research regarding the impact of SCS on area crime and public disorder is scant, inconsistently measured, and subject to confounders and bias.

Method: The purpose of this study, funded by the city’s administration, was to explore the observations and experiences of business owners and managers in a downtown area before and after a supervised consumption service was implemented in the area. Survey data was collected between January 2018 and April 2019 at five points in time.

Results: The host neighbourhood was initially strongly opposed to the SCS. Data revealed that the SCS resulted in shifting foot traffic and debris patterns and a decline in feelings of safety in the area. There were also localized increases in public disorder and antisocial behavior. The SCS and city administration were responsive in establishing mitigation strategies, including: extended SCS hours; peer outreach; daily area clean-up; monthly neighbour meetings; a needle debris hotline; and, security staff on neighbourhood foot patrol. Mitigation efforts were effective and well-received by the affected business community, which has struggled to accept the SCS but is committed to being informed, involved, and proactive.

Conclusion: As the drug crisis continues, the public acceptability of SCS needs to be enhanced, through multi-sectoral collaboration, community education, resource allocation, and positive relationships that focus on interests and mutual problem solving. More research is needed regarding the impacts of SCS on surrounding neighbourhoods so that their acceptability to the public can be enhanced.