Pleasant experience at needle exchange

[Rheadster72]

Hi all. I thought I'd share with you all my recent experience at needle exchange. I've been down about 4 times now to "pick and mix" what I need to self-inject B12. Never had any issues but always apprehensive about mentioning that the needles are for B12 injection, rather than something more sinister - on my first visit the guy thought I was there as I inject steroids so I just nodded and went along with it. This time, I was asked if I didn't mind filling in a confidential questionnaire. I agreed and the lady proceeded through a series of Qs about my injecting. When asked this time what I was injecting I said B12, then asked is that ok? The lady said that's fine then asked me about injecting (as part of the questionnaire but also as she too has low levels and supplements orally). Of course i couldnt contain myself and then went into the ins and outs of self injecting B12. I gave her my source of information (this forum).

For my trouble, I stocked back up of all the bits and bobs I needed (10 blue, 10 green, 10 orange - which is a new edition I'm going to try - 2.5 ml barrels, a sharps bin and some swabs).

All in all a pleasant experience. Hope someone finds help in this post.

[Foggyme Administrator]

Hi Rheadster72. What a brilliant needle exchange experience.

I know I've read here before that some people are reluctant to use needle exchange services (for various reasons) so it's good to hear such a positive account.

It's not inconceivable that as resources become more and more stretched, availability of other services (where they exist) may be further reduced, so hearing about needle exchange as a positive alternative is no bad thing.

And goodness me...it's free (if my understanding is correct).

Happy you're happy. Thanks for sharing.

👍

[Rheadster72 in reply to Foggyme]

Yes it's a free service. All they ask for is your initials, DOB and first part of postcode. It's scary at first going in, but I'd definitely recommend it for anyone self injecting.

[Sleepybunny in reply to Rheadster72]

Hi,

I'm pleased to hear that they only wanted your initials. I personally would not want to give my full name or DOB and would prefer things to be entirely anonymous.

I do feel safe disposal of syringes can be a problem for those who SI.

[Rheadster72 in reply to Sleepybunny]

It doesn't say anywhere that they need to be your initials and DOB, Sleepybunny!

[trelemorele]

Hey

So can you just turn up and say: I need this and that and they'll give it to you?

Thanks

[Rheadster72]

I can direct you to my previous post if someone can let me know how to find then paste links?? Basically gives you my experience and what they want from you in terms of details...

Obvious brain fog this am... as this is the post! Thought I was responding to a similar question!!

Anyway, yes you turn up, they ask for your initials, DOB, first part of your postcode. They don't check these credentials, just need them for their records. Then you walk out with a black bag of paraphernalia! All pretty simple