In Rouen, evening kits to party without skidding!
Like many student and active cities, Rouen has a dynamic nightlife with more than 200 bars, as many restaurants and a dozen nightclubs. Of course, these evenings can be the cause of risky behavior through excessive alcohol consumption, the taking of narcotics, unprotected sexual relations or prolonged noise attacks. For the second time in 2022, the medico-social association in addictology Compass distributed free evening kits containing equipment related to the festive world in bars in the city center.
Funded by the city of Rouen, the Regional Health Agency (ARS), the prefecture of Seine-Maritime and the Mildeca (Interministerial Mission for the Fight against Drugs and Addictive Behaviours), 1,000 evening kits contain a condom, a breathalyzer disposable chemical, a case of “roll your straw” leaves and its card to crush the drug for those who snort, wipes, plasters, earplugs and a glass cap to avoid pouring GHB into the women’s drinks. Everything is accompanied by instructions for use, the contact details of the various prevention centers and is supplied in a pouch equipped with a QR Code which refers to an anonymous questionnaire: “these kits were developed with young people in civic service and the student office. We have already broadcast some at the beginning of the year. For this new operation, they have been adapted with, in particular, the provision of glass caps after the 140 returns from the questionnaires that we received. All the products are purchased by La Boussole and we make the covers at the ESAT du Pré de la Bataille. Our approach is to reduce risks without judging consumption, ”explained Aurélie, head of service at the medico-social association.
In addition to these kits, campaigns to raise awareness among young people
At the same time, a poster and communication campaign on social networks has been set up to inform of the places where the kits can be recharged, “because the management of private spaces has become essential since the health crisis. Young people are increasingly partying outside the public space. So, during raids, we hang these supports in the bars they frequent,” added the manager.
Thus, on Friday evening, seven civic services and two professionals set off from Saint Mark’s Square towards the courthouse. Despite the cold, the terraces filled up very quickly. The team visited about fifteen establishments. After the agreement of the manager, they went from table to table arguing their action. Quickly, the 230 kits brought were donated. Very quickly, the young people flashed the QR Code and answered the questions. And spontaneously, they reacted positively and especially the young women. This is also where we realize that the scourge of GHB is anxiety-provoking. Of course, some tough guys said they didn’t need anything! You’re invincible at 20. However, night professionals appreciated the intention and invited La Boussole to renew their distribution.