Needle Exchange Service in Wigan | Harm Reduction & NSP | Wigan Road Pharmacy
Needle Exchange Service in Wigan | Harm Reduction Support
Wigan Road Pharmacy provides a confidential and non-judgmental needle and syringe programme (NSP). Our service is designed to reduce harm, prevent infections, and support community health through safe access to sterile injecting equipment and disposal services.
Confidential service • No appointment required • Free sterile equipment & safe disposal
What Is a Needle Exchange Service?
A needle exchange (NSP) provides clean, sterile needles and syringes to people who inject drugs, along with safe disposal of used equipment.
It helps reduce the spread of blood-borne viruses such as HIV and hepatitis C.
Why Is Needle Exchange Important?
- Reduces HIV, hepatitis B & C transmission
- Prevents abscesses and infections
- Supports safer injecting practices
- Reduces needle litter in public areas
- Provides access to health services and support
This service is a harm reduction approach — it does not encourage drug use.
Who Can Use This Service?
Our needle exchange service is open to anyone who injects drugs.
- No GP registration required
- No ID required
- Completely confidential
- Available for individuals or carers
How the Service Works
- Walk-in service — no appointment needed
- Collect sterile needles, syringes & equipment
- Return used equipment safely
- Receive sharps containers for disposal
Confidentiality & Privacy
All services at Wigan Road Pharmacy are fully confidential. No information is shared with third parties without your consent.
Our staff are trained in harm reduction and provide respectful, non-judgmental support at all times.
Safe Disposal of Needles
Used needles must never be placed in household waste. We provide sharps containers and safe disposal services at all times.
Health Advice & Additional Support
- Blood-borne virus testing advice (HIV, Hep B, Hep C)
- Safer injecting guidance
- Overdose prevention & naloxone information
- Drug treatment referrals
- Mental health & wound care support
Blood-Borne Virus Awareness
Sharing injecting equipment can transmit serious infections such as HIV and hepatitis C. Many infections show no early symptoms.
Hepatitis C is now curable in most cases with modern treatment. Early testing is strongly recommended.
Overdose Prevention & Naloxone
Naloxone can temporarily reverse opioid overdose effects and save lives.
- Slow or stopped breathing
- Blue lips or fingertips
- Unresponsiveness
Why Choose Wigan Road Pharmacy?
- Non-judgmental, confidential service
- Trained harm reduction staff
- Walk-in availability
- Safe equipment supply & disposal
- Health referrals & support access