What's Happening? - GDAS - Gwent Drug and Alcohol Service
Welcome to our weekly report on emerging substances in Gwent. This report is brought to you by our harm reduction specialist, Gareth, and is based on data gathered by Wedinos, a substance testing service. Our aim is to keep you informed about the substances found in locally purchased items, so you can make safer choices and reduce harm.
At GDAS, we understand the importance of staying vigilant in the face of emerging threats like Nitazenes. Drug testing services play a crucial role in safeguarding individuals and communities from the dangers of substance use.
Nitazenes are synthetic opioids, known for their potent nature. They pose a significant risk of overdose, hospitalization, and even death. Since January 2023, WEDINOS received seven samples bought under the belief they were acquiring heroin. Testing confirmed they contained nitazene(s).
At the Women's Group, we understand the unique challenges and triumphs that women face every day. Whether you're seeking a listening ear, a helping hand, or simply want to share your experiences, our weekly gatherings at the Lighthouse in Pontypool are here for you.
Smart Recovery Group
When: Every Monday from 6:30pm to 7:30pm
Where: Costar Community Hwb, 2 Fairwater Square, Cwmbran NP44 4TA (Entrance from the rear car park)
Overdose Awareness Day is a day to remember those we've lost to addiction, and it's essential to make it a day of reflection and community support. At GDAS, we understand the pain of addiction and overdose, and this year, on Overdose Awareness Day, we held a special event to honor and remember those we've lost. We opened our beautiful memorial garden at Powell's Place.
At GDAS, we are committed to providing support, education, and resources to individuals and communities dealing with substance use issues. Our mission is to promote harm reduction, save lives, and empower those in need. We recently had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Newport Pride event, where we were met with an overwhelming amount of enthusiasm and support for a vital tool in our arsenal: Naloxone.
We post harm reduction advice weekly, helpful tips on improving your quality of life, groups within Gwent, base updates, drug alerts and much more!
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There is currently contaminated Heroin in circulation throughout Gwent.
If you have a sample you’d like to get tested please attend your local base.
Make sure you have Naloxone, it could save somebody’s life. You can order yours and receive free training here.
GDAS is urging everyone who holds Naloxone equipment to check their kit, following a warning from manufacturers. Naloxone kits should include two needles; however, it has emerged some kits in France contain only one – or no – needles. The brand affected is known as Prenoxad.
Buvidal is a new medication that has been funded by the Welsh Government and is a new form of opiate substitution treatment. There have been several academic research studies published on the back of its success, but this is the first peer-led evaluation of the medication.
During the CV19 Pandemic, Newport was used as a pilot site for a new pioneering peer to peer naloxone pilot. The pilot involved training peer educators to walk the streets of Newport supplying life saving Naloxone kits to individuals and community members.
Right now Hepatitis C testing might be at the bottom of a long list, but treating it quickly will help you to avoid serious liver damage in the future. Testing is confidential, free and painless. Get tested to protect yourself and others.