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Syringes and needles exchange
Needle exchange schemes exist all over the country. They are free and most drug agencies and pharmacies offer them. They have several functions, which include:
- giving out sterile injecting equipment to drug users and encouraging them to return after use
- providing a safe place to dispose of used injecting equipment
- reducing harm from HIV and Hepatitis.
The vast majority of syringes that are handed out are returned and disposed of safely. In Wirral this is arranged by the Harm Reduction Centre at St Catherine’s Community Hospital in Tranmere. However, a small percentage of needles may end up being discarded inappropriately.
What to do if you find needles or syringes
If you do happen to find discarded needles or syringes please contact:
- between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, the Street Scene call centre on 0151 606 2004
- after 5pm or at weekends, Wirral Borough Council’s Control Room on 0151 666 5265.
Both services will make arrangements for the collection and safe disposal.
If you are injured
If you do receive an injury from a discarded needle the best course of action is to gently encourage the wound to bleed (DO NOT SUCK THE WOUND).Then wash with soap and warm running water, dry and cover with a plaster. Seek advice as soon as possible from A&E or your GP, as you may need a Hepatitis B or Tetanus vaccination. Please do not be alarmed if you are injured as the risk of infection from a needle stick injury is normally low.
For further information please see the 'hands off' leaflet and other links.