The HAARP Law Enforcement and Harm Reduction Advocacy and Action Manual has been developed as a practical resource that provides direction for those working in the harm reduction field and advocating for understanding and support from law enforcement agencies. The manual contains a comprehensive two-day training curriculum, fact sheets, case studies, frequently asked questions, helpful hints and guidelines all of which can be downloaded from the HAARP website
By using the contents of the manual with police; they will show active support for harm reduction programs; demonstrate leadership; and provide direction to the general community to create an enabling environment. The outcome will lead to harm reduction approaches working effectively and reaching the target population with little hindrance.
In order for police to understand the vital role they play in supporting harm reduction they must be adequately aware of their role and responsibilities in creating an 'enabling environment' for harm reduction, supported by the community.
Where police activities do not take into account the impact that they may have on harm reduction services, including needle and syringe exchange, methadone programs and access to condoms, these programs may fail or experience significant problems.
Law enforcement action, the threat of action, and even drug users' misconceptions about law enforcement actions, can have an extremely negative effect on harm reduction interventions.
For more detailed information download the Law Enforcement and Harm Reduction Manual. If you would like to have a hard copy of manual and toolkit, please contact us at info@haarp-online.org.
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