Consumptieruimtes

Consumptieruimtes are facilities where individuals may consume illegal or controlled substances in a supervised environment, with the aim of reducing health risks and public nuisance. They are part of harm reduction strategies and are typically linked to health services or social support networks.

Typical services include supervised ingestion, trained staff for overdose response, naloxone on site, access to sterile equipment and safe disposal, basic medical care for acute health issues, on-site social workers, counseling, referrals to addiction treatment, testing for infections, vaccinations, and assistance with housing or employment. Access policies often include age restrictions, informed consent, and assurances of confidentiality.

Legal status varies by country and region. In some European countries, such as the Netherlands and Switzerland, consumption rooms operate under regulated frameworks or pilot programs. They are usually located in urban areas with higher levels of drug-related harms and funded by government budgets, health authorities, and non-governmental organizations.

Evidence and impact: Research from places with such facilities reports reductions in overdoses, syringe sharing, and public injecting, and increased contact with health services and referrals to treatment. Data on long-term addiction outcomes is less clear, and programs face operational challenges related to staffing, security, and community acceptance.

Criticism and debate: Supporters emphasize public health benefits and safety for users; opponents question whether consumption rooms normalize drug use or attract activity to neighborhoods. Policy discussions focus on location, funding, regulatory oversight, and the need for robust evaluation to assess effectiveness.