London Chemsex Conferences (Report)

The impetus to organise a London Chemsex Conference stemmed from a lack of harm reduction for GBMSM and the wider LGBT+ community, the persistent rise of problematic drug use, addiction and complex harms, and the need for a more joined-up/ coordinated whole system approach for Greater London.

On 7 June 2024, 67 delegates attended an in-person multi-agency event at Camden Town Hall in a packed Claudia Jones Community Room. Originally invitation-only for 60, over 250 people requested to attend and/ or expressed interest in future events. Consequently, two further conferences were delivered on 11 October and 15 November.

Some know first-hand that working in the chemsex field can be demanding, uncompromising, and wins can feel few and far between; so, there was something truly special about so many attending these events to jumpstart this much-needed dialogue.

“The presentations were on point about the experiences and what support is available for people into chemsex. It was very interactive and created the avenues for connection amongst professionals.”

The conferences were delivered on a shoe-string budget – only made possible by volunteers; speakers, subject matter experts, and individuals with lived experience; and sponsors Release, The Hepatitis C Trust, Exchange Supplies, Slate Web Design, and Beauty and Pampering. Thank you. 

Documents

Resetting the Research Agenda on Chemsex

Please complete the survey if your work involves either working in chemsex related service provision or policy or working in a related area where you have some contact with chemsex policy or service provision.

Study Days 2025

Subject to funding1, GMHC is delivering quarterly Study Days around London from Spring 2025. For example, specialists in their field presenting in-depth sessions on harm reduction priorities, engagement and outreach (morning) and  treatment options, ‘G’ detox, and integrated care systems (afternoon). You are welcome to stay for the day or attend whatever session(s) suit your needs. Supply your email here if you would like to receive updates. 

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Chemsex harms awareness ad

1 Confirmation eitherway by early February 2025.