In the thesis, I researched the needs of drug users involved in low-threshold harm reduction program in the local daily centre. The organization Šent operates in Nova Gorica, and Svit, in Koper. In the theoretical part of the thesis, I presented the framework thinking of different authors on the subject of drug use, addiction, dependence, the user’s life trajectory, and their fundamental rights. Also presented are three models of drug use/management policy that are well-established worldwide. I focused on the current Slovenian public health model, specifically, the aspects of harm reduction and low-threshold programs and their services that are currently available to drug users in Slovenia. At the same time, I emphasized the role of professionals working in such programs, and the assistance techniques of the social work profession. I also presented selected low-threshold services that have proven successful in countries with more permissive drug policies, e.g. safe consumption room, and prescription heroin. Understanding the problem of illicit drug use allows us to explore with the user the various options for improving the quality of their life.
The thesis is thus based on primary experiential material and gathered in eight interviews with individual collocutors. The population included are users of illicit drugs aged from 19 to 45 years, and who attend the Day Centre Šent and Svit activities respectively. I used a uniform questionnaire to collect the basic data and perform a quick needs assessment adapted to my research needs.
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