1. Needle and syringe programmes Working with Local Authorities:- A strategic and community development approach to planning applications

2. Introduction The planning system Engaging key players Community development Publicity and media interest Case Study Q&A, discussion.

3. When is planning permission required? Planning controls are based on the concept of development. Development Plans – particular to each local area. Outlines what types of development are permitted. Planning Policy Guidance note 12:Development Plans – advises authorities to consider the relationship of planning proposals to social needs and problems. Property requirements – does an existing property need upgrading /are new premises required? Building Regulations

4. Finding New premises Location- consider access, security. Is there property available which already has planning permission for health and social care use? (DI ) Change of use ? – Use class D1 – health centres and clinics Planning considerations – appropriate location, access, increased traffic, both people and vehicular, disturbance, minimising impact on the existing community.

5. Planning Applications – the process Contact L.A and inform of proposal Check local Development Plan Obtain planning application form What type of planning permission? Outline /Full? Consultation ? Submit application Check timescales

6. Key Players Know your local councillors and their particular spheres of influence/interest Commissioners Public Health leads Police Community Safety Partners Parents/ Carers organisations Planning officers The L.A press office.

7. Engaging Communities. How will you respond to NIMBYism? What will you do about Drug Related Litter, drug users hanging around, fear of increased crime, stereotyping etc etc…? Are there any community champions in the area or who have had contact with the service/similar services before? Enlist their support. Are there local problem solving partnership groups in the area? Talk to - - businesses, street wardens, community beat officers, residents associations, near neighbours. Consultation –who, when,where, how!

8. Be prepared Know the strategic key priorities for your LAA. What is their vision? How does your service contribute? What are the number of people in drug treatment? How many PDUs not engaged? What are the local issues in the immediate area? Engage with local authority services that deal with drug related litter – set up policies, protocols and training to deal with the issue. What added value will the service bring, particularly if it is a tier2 direct access Harm Reduction Service? Gain the support of Parent/Carer organisations. Maximise the potential gains under the Public Health agenda.

9. Publicity and Media interest Have press releases and statements prepared- if possible from a variety of sources e.g. police public health leads, the local councillor, commissioner. Be prepared for local press and TV coverage. Who will put the case and what will they want to promote? Be prepared for meetings with vocal local communities. What will you present? Who can manage public consultation/confrontation calmly and with focus?

10. Safety nets Where else can needle exchange be carried out? Pharmacies Treatment centres Gp surgeries/Drop in Centres A&E Mobile Outreach Community projects

11. A case study Never underestimate the power of a well orchestrated community objection If all the above suggestions followed and still planning permission refused…. Turn the negative into a positive – Where else will harm reduction get so much free publicity – the reach can be tremendous. Use the opportunity to involve a wider audience in the debate Be open and encourage objectors to visit services Build on the knowledge around issues in local communities.

12. General Planning Guidance for Residential &Non Residential Drug Treatment Centres drugs.homeoffice.gov.uk/.../treatment /guidance-drug-centres Google Needle exchange and planning. isabella@lifeline.org.uk Further Information