About
Drugs and Sex: Understanding “Chemsex” and How to Reduce Potential Harms is an afternoon training course/workshop delivered by The Loop. Our trainers have front line understanding and experience in relation to drug use, sexual heath and harm reduction, drawing on professional training qualifications and many years of experience in delivery. Our courses are informed by The Loop’s regular healthcare interventions and drug testing services, which identify current drug market trends and related issues. The Loop has published a number of peer-reviewed papers on drug use, including on the links between drug use and sexual behaviours.
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for anyone who wants to learn about sexualised drug use, Chemsex and reducing harms from the associated behaviours. This includes those working in sexual health services, substance use services, universities, public health, wider NHS staff, the events industry and anywhere else where sex and drug use intersect.
Aim of the course
To support participants to better understand Chemsex, the drugs involved, the associated behaviours and what evidence-based harm reduction advice can be offered to participants.
Learning outcomes
- Gain an understanding of what sexualised drug use is and how Chemsex fits within this
- Learn the history around Chemsex and specific cultural sensitivities
- Better understand the drugs associated within Chemsex settings and the effects/risks associated
- Understand relevant harm reduction measures relating to the drugs used within Chemsex but also wider harm reduction for other risky behaviours or vulnerabilities
Overview of course content
- Introduction to Chemsex and a critical evaluation of its use in drug related terminology.
- Why do people engage in Chemsex.
- The drugs associated with Chemsex: GHB/GBL, methamphetamine and mephedrone.
- Harm reduction measures for those participating in Chemsex.
- Supporting people regarding additional needs which could contribute to associated risks; sexual health, vulnerability, mental health and more.
