Peers, politics and community involvement in harm reduction: a qualitative exploration of barriers to service provision across Europe

Abstract

Harm reduction has been found to be a successful approach in attempting to mitigate the risks associated with drug use. However, a number of barriers arise for service provision. The current research set out to examine these barriers within the context of a social-ecological model, with each key stakeholder situated at each level of the model. The study used existing qualitative data. Participants were the directors or held senior positions in drug-related organisations in 25 countries in Europe. Using a framework analysis, 25 qualitative interview transcripts were coded and several themes emerged at each social-ecological level. The findings suggest that examining harm reduction service provision from a social-ecological perspective sheds light on the complex relationships between all key stakeholders, and the importance of considering all stakeholders in policy development, funding allocation and service provision.