The Shout Clinic Harm Reduction Report: 2010
Principal Organization: Shout Clinic, a site of Central Toronto Community Health Centers
Investigators: Lorraine Barnaby (principal), Patricia G. Erickson, Ph.D (co-investigator)
Authors: Lorraine Barnaby, Rebecca Penn and Patricia G. Erickson, Ph.D
Participants: High-risk, substance-using, homeless street-involved youth (aged 16-24) in Toronto
Research Methods: Peer researcher model, survey interview, focus group, arts-informed project
Art by L.P. (produced through arts-informed project)
This report records and presents the voices of high-risk, substance-using homeless street-involved youth who are engaging in some of the most risky types of drug use and practices. They present a unique insider view of the complex and diverse realities of homeless street-involved youth; their drug practices and health status; and the barriers they face in the access to and implementation of harm reduction, addiction, health and social services.
These are the voices that governments, funders, policy makers and service providers must listen to if we want to make progress in improving the lives and brightening the futures of this under-served group of youth in our community.
Download the report Homeless Youth Speak Out
On February 17, 2010 Lorraine Barnaby presented her report in a Wellesley webinar attended by about 100 people from across Canada. Here is the presentation that was used in that session.
Conclusions
The overarching conclusion is that, based on the acceptance of harm reduction principles, it is crucial:
- to provide accessible and appropriate services geared to this extremely marginalized and vulnerable group
- to develop new initiatives that draw together youth, service providers, researchers, advocates, government officials, police and politicians to target social stigma
Topics Addressed in this Report:
- Homelessness and housing
- Substance use and related harms and risks
- Conflicts with the law
- Social stigma of substance use
- Health issues, including mental health, addiction, sexual activity
- Barriers to harm reduction, primary health and community services
What services have you utilized the most, and what are still needed (harm reduction services)?