Swindon Needle Programme transforms countless lives in first year

For a gentleman struggling with addiction, a simple visit to exchange a used syringe became the turning point he never saw coming. After a few minutes of conversation with Salvation Army support worker Connor Graham, what began as a routine transaction evolved into a deep discussion about his life, his health, and his dangerous habits. That conversation, built on a foundation of trust and non-judgement, led him to seeking help at addiction services in the town and, months later, he returned to Booth House no longer taking substances and on a journey to recovery.  

This is the human impact behind the Needle and Syringe Programme (NSP) at The Salvation Army’s Swindon Booth House Lifehouse, which this month celebrates its first anniversary. The programme was established to meet people where they are, offering a vital lifeline and a bridge to recovery for those often overlooked. 

Since its launch, there have been 109 needle exchanges and 976 pieces of equipment issued in what the programme administrators say is a sign that the programme is being used and trusted. 

Connor Graham, a Support Worker who helped pioneer the programme with Harm Reduction Lead Paul Kyson says the misconception is that by offering this service, we are encouraging use. 

The Salvation Army uses a harm reduction approach, which offers both compassion and practical support, prioritising people’s safety over changing their actions so they don’t miss out on opportunities to receive help. Embedding this approach in their supported accommodation, known as Lifehouses, and other services means people feel safe enough to be honest about their substance use and ask for help.

Paul said, “while it is difficult to count how many lives have been transformed by this initiative, the visible evidence of used needles returned and  clean ones taken, demonstrates harm reduction in action.”

In its first year, the NSP has proven to be a critical public health initiative. By safely collecting and disposing of used syringes, the programme protects the wider community, including children, from the dangers of discarded sharps. It also helps prevent the spread of blood-borne viruses like Hepatitis C and HIV.

The programme’s innovative, two-pronged approach prioritises both discretion and engagement. A vendor machine at the entrance allows anonymous access, respecting the privacy of those not ready to engage directly. For others, the act of coming inside to exchange equipment opens the door to life-changing conversations.

“At first, clients are quick, they just want to get out of the room,” Connor notes. “But after they realise, we’re not there to judge, we start having deep, meaningful conversations. They might mention a health concern or talk about what led them here. That’s our chance to intervene, to signpost them to grief counselling, drug and alcohol services, or other support. It’s about building a bridge.”

The programme is a collaborative effort, supported by Swindon Borough Council, drug and alcohol service CGL, and other local partners. Data on usage patterns is shared (with consent) to help identify individuals who may need more intensive support, turning a simple exchange into a proactive intervention tool.

Connor said, “It’s not just a transaction. This programme is about showing people that we care that their lives have value, and that hope and help are always available. That one gentleman who came back to thank us—that’s the ‘amazingness’ we’re working for every day.”

The programme also provides Naloxone pens to reverse overdoses and through support worker conversations offers advice that clients can share with their friends, and “we track trends to help people before they hit a crisis.”

The Salvation Army’s Swindon Booth House is a 50-bed Lifehouse providing 24-hour direct access accommodation and resettlement support for single men and women over 18 experiencing homelessness. The centre offers a safe and structured environment with practical support, including life skills training, access to healthcare, addiction recovery programs, and employment guidance. To learn more about Swindon Booth House and their programmes visit their website: Booth House Swindon Lifehouse | The Salvation Army