Needle Exchange and Supervised Consumption services frequently asked questions

How do I order more needle exchange equipment?

Orders can be made by sending an email to Vernacare stating the provider name, delivery address and a contact telephone number, and the quantity of stock required including order codes.  If you are having issues with this process, please email Public Health Dorset

How do I arrange for a needle exchange sharps box and waste pick up?

Bins are provided and collected by PHS, the local authorities’ current waste collection service provider.  If you have not had a bin before, please contact phcontracts@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and we will set you up with this. PHS will then regularly collect your bin according to your levels of use.  If you have any issues with the service provided by PHS, please email Public Health Dorset explaining the problem and we will look to resolve this for you.

I have a query about the delivery of needle exchange services

If you need advice on how to deliver needle exchange, please email Public Health Dorset in the first instance. A copy of the service specification is also available on the Needle Exchange and Supervised consumption page of Public Health Dorset website

I have a query concerning the prescribing or dispensing of medication for Drug and Alcohol clients

In the first instance, please contact the individual prescriber.  If you are unsure who the prescriber is, please phone the main AWP (Avon & Wiltshire Mental Health NHS Partnership Trust) office: 01202 977010

How do I know when my pharmacy services activity return for supervised consumption should be submitted?

This information is outlined in the service specification on the Needle Exchange and Supervised consumption page of Public Health Dorset website

Am I permitted to issue more than one dose to supervised consumption clients if my pharmacy shuts over the weekend or if there is a bank holiday?

Yes. In this instance you may issue enough doses for the days you cannot supervise however you cannot issue for longer holiday periods. If you are asked for this, please phone the main AWP office: 01202 977010

Where are the local Drug and Alcohol Services in my area?

Treatment services contact numbers can be found on the Alcohol and other drugs page of Public Health Dorset website.

I have a query concerning the prescribing or dispensing of medication for Drug and Alcohol clients

Please call AWP on: 01202 977010