“I wouldn’t be here”: Ontario supervised consumption site users speak out on closures
Amidst the ongoing closures of supervised consumption sites in Ontario, users of these facilities are speaking out about the impact it will have on their lives.
Supervised consumption sites, also known as safe injection sites, provide a safe and supervised environment for individuals to use drugs, reducing the risk of overdose and providing access to support services. However, the provincial government has announced the closure of several of these sites, citing concerns about their effectiveness and community safety.
But for those who rely on these sites, the closures are a cause for concern. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the safe injection site,” said one user, who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s a place where I feel safe and supported, and without it, I don’t know what I would do.”
The closures have also sparked fears of increased overdose deaths and the spread of diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C. According to a study by the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, supervised consumption sites have been linked to a 35% decrease in overdose deaths in the areas where they are located.
In addition to the potential health consequences, the closures also mean a loss of access to support services for many users. These sites not only provide a safe place to use drugs, but also offer resources such as counselling, harm reduction supplies, and referrals to treatment programs.
“I come here not just to use drugs, but also to get help,” said another user. “Without this site, I don’t know where I would go for support.”
The closures have also raised concerns about the displacement of drug use into public spaces, which could lead to increased stigma and criminalization of drug users. “If we don’t have a safe place to go, we’ll have to use in parks or alleys, and that’s not good for anyone,” said a third user.
While the provincial government has stated that it will redirect funding from supervised consumption sites to treatment programs, many users argue that these services are not interchangeable. “Treatment is important, but it’s not the same as harm reduction,” said a user. “We need both.”
In response to the closures, advocates and community members have organized protests and petitions, calling on the government to reconsider its decision. They argue that supervised consumption sites not only save lives, but also save money by reducing the strain on emergency services and the healthcare system.
As the closures continue, the future of supervised consumption sites in Ontario remains uncertain. But for the users who rely on these facilities, the impact is already being felt. “I just hope they realize how much this site means to us,” said a user. “We need it to stay open.”
