‘ NSPs are cost-effective and cost-saving. But more than this, they’ re an opportunity to connect and care – to build trust and address stigma.’
MONICA DESAI, UKHSA
‘ Ultimately we have to talk about how do we create a legal environment that allows the experts – which are people who use drugs, people who work in services – to determine what is needed to reduce harm.’
NIAMH EASTWOOD, RELEASE
‘ We need to engage young people [ around ketamine use ] without shaming them. Many young people are scared and confused.’
MAT SOUTHWELL, COACT
‘ We’ re not vulnerable – we’ re made vulnerable.’
GRACE SUMNER( ON ATTITUDES TO SEX WORKERS)
‘ We keep doing the same thing because we don’ t listen to an alternative.’
VICKI BEERE, UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER
WWW. DRINKANDDRUGSNEWS. COM OCTOBER 2026 • DRINK AND DRUGS NEWS • 17