Safe Consumption

Scotland's drug-related mortality rate has doubled since 2014, a tragic statistic that continues to worsen each year. With up-to 1,200 drug-related deaths annually, the crisis is fuelled by government health cuts and the rise of cheap, counterfeit street-manufactured opioids like Valium and Diazepam.

In response to this growing crisis, former addict and campaigner Peter Krykant took matters into his own hands by creating the UK’s first safe consumption space for drug users in Glasgow. Inspired by a Dutch model, Peter converted both a minibus and a decommissioned ambulance into mobile harm reduction sites. Operating in a legal grey area, he provided drug users with clean paraphernalia, overdose prevention education, and dignity. His initiative was entirely funded by public donations, offering a compassionate alternative to criminalisation.

Spending time with Peter gave me a deeper understanding of his mission and the lives affected by addiction. He has become a personal hero of mine, dedicating himself to saving lives despite the personal risks. Thanks to his efforts, Glasgow has taken steps towards meaningful change, including police officers receiving training in the use of Naloxone, a life-saving overdose reversal drug.

Since this project was documented, a permanent safe consumption site officially opened in Glasgow in December 2024, a vital step forward in harm reduction.