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Opioid Epidemic and Illicit Drug Response

Latest Updates

The Health Contact Centre continues to provide a number of wrap-around services, such as harm reduction supplies, peer employment opportunities, education on safer drug use, and regular needle sweeps of the surrounding area. The City is currently investigating whether there is an opportunity to extend opening hours for the Health Contact Centre. It is anticipated that extended hours will reduce public drug use and the amount of drug paraphernalia which is being discarded in public areas.

The City is continuing its support in advocacy for decriminalization of drugs. 

Fraser Health is currently providing a number of outreach services. City staff and the New Westminster Police Department are currently working in conjunction with Fraser Health to ensure those who require such services receive the necessary referrals.

What’s Planned

Discussions are currently ongoing with Fraser Health Authority regarding additional outreach services in response to the opioid epidemic and toxic drug supply. A case for support is currently under development to address opportunities to provide expanded supervised services as well as increased and expanded needle sweeps to ensure the safe disposal of drug paraphernalia.

Opioid Crisis and Drug Overdose - check out this presentation to learn more about New Westminster and drug use, as well as a demonstration of how to use Naloxone. For Naloxone training, please connect with the Health Contact Centre. 

This session, recorded April 2022, features four guest speakers who offer insight and education on the opioid crisis and how businesses can support drug users. Use these links to skip to the information most important to you: 

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background Information
  • 03:42 What Does the Purpose Society Offer? with Sydney Andrews and Travis Walker from the Lower Mainland Purpose Society
  • 24:17 Current Situation in New Westminster with Assistant Deputy Chief Brad Davie, New Westminster Fire & Rescue Services
  • 27:37 - Brad Davie also provides information about preparing your worksite for an overdose emergency, including a nalaxone demonstration
  • 52:55 - Tailgate Toolkit with Colby Young from the Vancouver Island Construction Association - discussing stigma of substance use, especially in the construction and trades industry.
  • 1:25:27 - Regional Resources for Harm Reduction with Tyler Weatherup from Fraser Health - Tyler also talks a lot about shame, and its impacts and has some constructive tips on what to do if you're a business owner and an employee seeks your support.