Devon is a peer worker who provides overdose prevention and harm reduction supports to those living in shelters and supportive housing. As someone who had his own life saved at an overdose prevention site, he understands the value of these services and it’s important to him that others understand the facts.
Read his story
“Overdose prevention sites (OPS) and supervised consumption sites (SCS) are a place where anybody over 18 can go and use substances safely in a safe environment, where people feel comfortable and free to be themselves,” he says.
He says the people working at these sites are respectful and non-judgemental.
“They’re so professional and they know what they’re doing. I’m confident when I’m going in there that I’m safe. These people are not here to judge or shame. These people are here because they care.”
Watch the video
Learn about Devon's experiences with supervised consumption and overdose prevention sites.
Learn more about overdose prevention and supervised consumption sites
This story is part of a five-part series called In my experience, where people share first-hand experiences and information about accessing a variety of substance use services at Interior Health.
Read other In my experience stories
Supervised consumption services and overdose prevention sites provide a safe location for a person to use drugs and be monitored in case of overdose. If desired, trained professionals can provide additional services like safer injection education, drug-checking, nursing care and referrals to other substance use services.
Learn about Supervised Consumption/Overdose Prevention Sites
*In loving memory of Devon, we continue to share this resource in honour of his legacy as a courageous leader and educator.
All's well that ends well: For Kelowna health unit aide JQ, this simple phrase is more than advice—it’s a way of life.
/stories/we-are-ih-health-unit-aide-brings-positivity-every-day
The winter and holiday season can bring joy, but can also bring stresses and challenges. Explore these 10 tips for supporting for mental and physical health.
/stories/10-healthy-habits-winter-and-holiday-season
Party more safely this holiday season with these tips from our Harm Reduction team.
/stories/checklist-safer-celebrating-season
Meet Sue Raymer, president the of the Castlegar & District Hospital Foundation, and learn more about her and her fundraising journey in Castlegar.
/stories/foundation-spotlight-series-castlegar-district-hospital-foundation
Stephenie has lived in Vancouver, Ontario, and Vernon and brings her fun and positive attitude to her role as an administrator at Vernon Health Unit.
/stories/we-are-ih-small-mighty-admin-assistant-loves-boost-morale
Slips, trips, and falls can happen at any time of the year, but we typically see an increase in these incidents when conditions are snowy and icy.
/stories/how-prevent-slips-trips-falls-winter
STAY CONNECTED
Receive news and alert posts, and Stories@IH blog posts, right to your inbox!