INTRODUCTION TO CHEMSEX
Our “Introduction to Chemsex” training day does what it says on the tin and is ideal for those wishing to gain a better understanding of the subject, related issues, and potential implications for services. The day has been running successfully since 2017.
Who is it for?
This accessible training day is designed for staff and workers from drug and alcohol, sexual health, and health promotion services; commissioning, CCGs, GPs, LGBT organisations and local government; and works more effectively if participants reflect these organisations.
Core learning objectives, which we are pleased to adapt depending on need, including a half-day:
- An understanding of the terms ‘chemsex’, ‘slamming’, ‘bareback’, ‘PEP’ and ‘PrEP’ and how they interconnect
- An understanding of chemsex and its evolution among gay men within a cultural and historical context
- An overview of prevalence and potential future trends
- An understanding of the challenges for harm reduction and abstinence (sober sex) strategies for gay men (GBMSM)
- An overview of treatment services and challenges facing the development of chemsex services
- An understanding of how a chemsex service might be integrated into a mainstream drug service
- An understanding of the need for drug and alcohol treatment services to better meet the needs of LGBT people
How is the day comprised?
Presentations, group exercises, discussions, Q&A and short films. The material is underpinned by our gay men’s health and well-being website MENRUS.CO.UK, which includes a comprehensive section on drug use, harm reduction, and chemsex. Delivered by facilitators with lived experience.
Aftercare
Afterwards, participants are given a PDF resources handout from the day and printed copies of our Safer pack and Safer chemsex pack (PIP-PAC). We actively encourage participants to contact GMHC should there be any afterthoughts or questions. We also recommend colleagues and peers for more advanced in-depth training and learning.
What participants say*
- “I am leaving with many ideas and the realisation that we have much to do in adapting our provision to meet specific needs. I understand now why the LGBTQ community are not present in our service as they could be.”
- “The trainers were very passionate and knowledgeable and keen to engage with us.”
- “This was exceptional training, and really helped me start to focus on what we need to do in our service.”
- “Really liked the flow … and the candour of the presenters/ trainers.”
- “It’s been a really well run and informative session. Very well balanced between good training and being relaxed. thank you.”
Contact here us to find out more.
* Evaluation from training days (anonymised), available on request.