Implementing Safer Supply programs: A comparative case study

Case study
by
Haines, Marlene & Patrick O'Byrne

Release Date

2023

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

This study provides an overview of the planning and implementation of Safer Supply programs in Ottawa, Canada.

Findings/Key points

Three unique Safer Supply programs were implemented in Ottawa. Factors that supported this included the innovation (Safer Supply) being originally conceptualized by people who use drugs, the inclusion of wrap-around services for clients, and ongoing teamwork among the partner organizations. While each participating organization operates under separate funding models and discrete domains of care, ultimately, we have demonstrated that Safer Supply can be implemented in many different contexts, providing the foundation for scaling this program in other communities.

Keywords

Safer supply
Wrap-around services
Evidence base