The Loop launches drug-checking service in Birmingham
· re:union Radio editorial · 1 min read
The Loop is opening two free drug-checking hubs in Birmingham. The monthly sessions provide chemical analysis and anonymous harm reduction consultations.
Regular testing hubs across two locations
Harm reduction charity The Loop is introducing free regular drug-checking services in Birmingham this weekend. The initiative receives funding from Birmingham City Council.
The testing will be available each month at two designated locations:
- BIRCH (Birmingham Integrated Recovery Community Hub) in Digbeth opens on 14th November from 12 to 8 PM, running on the second Saturday of each month.
- CGL Birmingham’s Health & Wellbeing Hub begins operations on 25th November from 2 to 9 PM, repeating on the final Wednesday of every month.
The free provision includes rapid chemical analysis of submitted substance samples along with tailored, confidential health discussions. Katy Porter, CEO of The Loop, shared in a statement with Leafie: "Drug checking gives people access to accurate information within a harm reduction consultation informed by The Loop’s testing. This supports understanding of potential risks and enables people to make informed decisions related to their drug use."
Expansion across the UK
Establishing services in Birmingham follows The Loop's objective to expand across the UK. The organisation already provides testing services in Bristol and across the London boroughs of Hackney, Camden, and Ealing. Founded in 2016, The Loop marks its tenth anniversary this year.
Source: DJ Mag
