Dr. Abigale Sprakes (she/her) is an Assistant Professor in the School of Social Work at Lakehead University in Ontario, Canada. Her community-based research focuses on the opioid epidemic, harm reduction and peer interventions. A key aspect of her research is co-leadership with people with lived/living experience to amplify their voices.

Background: Canada has funded a handful of Safer Supply programs (SSP) in communities severely impacted by the opioid epidemic. SSPs provide prescribed opioid alternatives to combat the toxic unregulated drug supply, which results in 22 deaths a day in Canada. In 2024, one of the hardest-hit communities participated in this study to evaluate the SSP, explore the direct impact of SSP from the participant’s perspectives and centre the voices of those at the highest risk of death.

Method: The parent study utilized a community-based mixed methods approach; however, this presentation will focus on in-depth, semi-structured interviews (n=20). The coding framework was iteratively developed and refined throughout the analysis, which identified themes and patterns within the participant interviews. The study design included co-leadership of individuals with living experience of opioid addiction as members of the research team. This design ensured the voices of those most impacted by the opioid epidemic were central to the process and interpretation of the findings.

Findings: Participants reported positive changes in their lives due to the SSP. Key themes included decreased risk, increased access to basic needs, increased physical and mental health, and increased social connection/inclusion. While having access to non-toxic pharmaceutical opioids stabilized participants’ lives, it was the connection made with the program staff that made them feel seen as humans after years of stigma and discrimination. As this program is currently a pilot until early 2025, participants shared key concerns about their future.

Conclusion: SSP participants provide compelling evidence to support the continuity of SSPs as one way to address the opioid overdose crisis. Listening to the experiences of those directly affected is essential to saving the lives of people who use drugs. The importance of person-centred and evidence-based approaches in healthcare is highlighted and underscores the need for continued investment in SSPs.