Supervised consumption services (SCS) are spaces where people can use drugs under the supervision of trained personnel. There are 100+ sites operating worldwide as an evidence-based strategy to promote connection, safety, and public health. 

There are various models of SCS and each have their own benefits. Check out the Photos & Video section to take a look at different models around the world.

Are you just starting the conversation about SCS in your community? Check out some of the short documentaries and other examples public education in the Photos & Video section of this website.

The movement for SCS requires public education and awareness of the issues - otherwise, the way the general public learns about SCS is through the media. From projections on buildings of facts about SCS to tours of Safe Shape to organizing actions, there are many creative ideas of how to promote public education and support for SCS - check out Resources to learn more about public education strategies.

There is no shortage of peer-reviewed scientific articles that SCS promote health and safety for both people who use drugs and the communities in which they live. We've compiled some of the U.S.-based literature in addition to international summary documents to inform your talking points and advocacy - check out The Evidence.

Getting ahead of the media to focus on messaging and framing of the issue is essential. Whether it's writing op-eds, holding press conferences, or conducting radio or TV interviews, preparation is key. Check out the Press page for some templates and examples supportive media in the U.S. on this issue. 

Effective and clear messaging around this issue is critical to build support locally. The rationale to advocate for SCS will vary place to place - but check out some examples of messaging by visiting Connect Locally to learn more about campaigns and Resources for some examples of framing the issue.

One tool for promoting public education and awareness of public drug use and the need for SCS is to host Safe Shape in your city. The mock pop-up SCS can be assembled in public spaces where people can walk through the pop-up and watch videos related to unsafe conditions of where people use drugs and Safe Shape/SCS as an alternative to promote safer drug use. To learn more, visit Resources to get some ideas of how it's been used in the past. 

The implementation of SCS doesn't require political support - but it can certainly help to reduce the likelihood of backlash from communities or law enforcement. Several public officials across the country have become advocates for SCS - check out Photos and Video to watch a clip about how advocates in government positions talk about SCS.

The movement for SCS in the United States continues to grow with cities across the country launching local and state campaigns. Several cities have worked in partnership with local departments of health to conduct needs assessments and a task force process for determining the need for SCS. Learn more by navigating to Connect Locally to learn more about these initiatives.

In the absence of SCS, public bathrooms across the country are often one of the few places with access to privacy to use drugs. Syringe exchange programs have taken steps to make their bathrooms safer to prevent fatal overdose onsite among other risks. Check out Resources for some guidelines and suggestions about how to navigate people using drugs in bathrooms. 

Similar to syringe exchange programs, many sanctioned SCS around the world started with action among people who use drugs - many of which have been operating unsanctioned SCS for decades in an effort to keep their community safe and alive. It is essential to meaningfully involved people who use drugs to determine the "who, what, where, when" of implementing SCS. To learn more about the important role of peers in this movement, check out Photos and Videos to watch a short clip about meaningful involvement of people who use drugs.