STREET POPULATION AND HARM REDUCTION STRATEGY

Abstract

In this study we approach the relationships between the homeless population and the use of psychoactive substances in the perspective of harm reduction. We aim to report the experience of building a guide of recommendations for the reduction of risks and damages directed to the homeless population elaborated by homeless people assisted by the Centro de Referência à População em Situação de Rua (Centro POP), in the city of Sobral-CE. This is a descriptive experience study, based on a qualitative approach. To carry out the intervention, stationery resources and the distribution of information leaflets and condoms were necessary. The activity took place in the second week of February 2020, with the participation of eight users. As main results we highlight the protagonism of the participants, the socialization of information among peers, as well as the production and expression of meanings materialized in the guide. Finally, we reiterate the importance of harm reduction strategies in health care for people on the street who use psychoactive substances.