Bristol declared ‘city of harm reduction’ as Greens seek less punitive drug policy
Summary
Bristol has officially declared itself a “city of harm reduction,” focusing on helping people who use illegal drugs instead of punishing them. Local politicians want the government to change drug laws and allow safer drug-use facilities to reduce harm and deaths.Key Facts
- Bristol city council, led by the Green Party, made the harm reduction declaration.
- The goal is to prioritize health support over criminal punishment for drug users.
- The move has support from Labour and Liberal Democrat councillors but is opposed by Conservative members.
- Bristol has nearly twice the national rate of drug poisoning deaths.
- The city wants to open a legal drug-consumption site like the one in Glasgow.
- Cara Lavan, a Green councillor, lost her partner to a drug overdose and supports the new approach.
- The Greens want the UK to replace the 1971 drug law with policies based on evidence and health.
- Some council members worry the policy could send the wrong message but agree on the need for change.
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