As part of International Overdose Awareness Day (31 August), Walsall residents are being encouraged to recognise the signs of drug overdose, and for people with alcohol and drug problems to seek support from The Beacon at Change Grow Live, Walsall Council Public Health’s commissioned alcohol and drug treatment service.
The global event is dedicated to remembering lives lost to overdose, supporting those affected and promoting life-saving knowledge and action.
Earlier this year, Walsall Council, in partnership with The Beacon – Change Grow Live, released a one-minute animation on drug safety. The video provides vital guidance for anyone who uses opioids (e.g. heroin) or similar drugs.
Key safety advice includes getting early support for any alcohol and drug problems, going low and slow by using a smaller dose and waiting for the peak effects to pass, using with trusted friends, not mixing drugs and looking after each other.
Recognising the signs of an overdose is crucial and, for an opioid overdose, can include loss of consciousness, snoring, shallow or absent breathing and blue or grey lips or fingertips. If someone experiences an overdose, call 999 immediately and give naloxone (a lifesaving drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose). Naloxone can be given by anyone in an emergency.
The Beacon offers free naloxone kits and peer to peer training to anyone who may witness an overdose, including family members, friends and frontline workers.
To mark International Overdose Awareness Day, The Beacon will host a stand on Friday 29 August at their hub in The Quarter, Walsall town centre. Service users and visitors can learn more about overdose prevention, sign up for peer-to-peer naloxone training and access services.
“ International Overdose Awareness Day is a powerful reminder that behind every overdose is a person, a story and a family. It is important that we come together to remember those lives lost to overdose, and to be aware of the signs. Preventing overdose and using naloxone is a life-saving tool. Recovery is possible and we are committed to ensuring that everyone knows help is available and that no one has to face this alone. “
Councillor Gary Flint, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing
Walsall Council
“ At The Beacon, we see every day how connection and community can transform lives. Naloxone saves lives and we’re pleased to offer free kits and training to anyone who may need it. Whether you’re a loved one, a neighbour or someone in recovery, you’re part of the family. Recovery begins with a conversation and we’re here to listen, guide, and support.
You can get support or request free naloxone kits from The Beacon – Change Grow Live by calling 01922 669840, email thebeacon.walsall@cgl.org.uk or visit Unit 4, The Quarter, Walsall, WS1 1QU.
Service users from The Beacon have shared their stories of recovery over the last year. Watch the stories of Laura, Angela, Vanessa, Kirsty and Marilyn on YouTube.
To find out more about The Beacon, visit the Change Grow Live website.