Publication date: Friday, December 8, 2023
The conclusion of the two-day Greater Sudbury Toxic Drugs Summit (Summit) marks a milestone and watermark for collective action. The first-of-its-kind event for the city emphasized collaboration, compassion, and evidence-based approaches, setting the stage for a more unified community response to the toxic drug crisis.
“We understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to this crisis, just as each person who uses substances has a unique path and unique needs. If it were easy and there was an off-the-shelf solution, we wouldn’t need to gather for these two days. We’d have participants listening intently, ready to discuss ideas, and hearing other people’s perspectives. We appreciate your acceptance,” said René Lapierre, chair of the Sudbury and District Public Health Committee.
Over the course of a day and a half, attendees heard that deaths from opioid addiction increased by more than 500% from 2017 to 2020, and that accidental overdose is the leading cause of death for people under 50. I did. These numbers are highlighted by powerful stories and comments from people with lived experience of the toxic drug crisis who have shared the pain, including the loss of loved ones and loss of connections to community, work and family. it was done.
The summit brought people together in the same room to gain common understanding and help open hearts and minds to forge more connections to build hope and optimism.
Opportunities for further consideration to build a more comprehensive community response to the toxic drug crisis include safer supplies, safer spaces for people to use drugs, and supportive These include ideas for sustainable housing, better care coordination and linkage of care pathways, and centers of excellence in mental health. And at the heart of it all is a philosophy of connection, respect for people who use substances, eliminating structural bias, and doing no harm.
It is hoped that collaboration at the Summit will help realize the Summit’s vision and lead Greater Sudbury to a healthier and safer future. Sudbury Public Health and the District and the City of Greater Sudbury are organizing and contributing to the creation of a safe space for open discussion to explore innovative ideas to prevent drug-related harm and death. Thank you to everyone who participated.
The City of Greater Sudbury, Sudbury Public Health and District, Health Sciences North, Canadian Mental Health Association, Réseau ACCESS Network, Greater Sudbury Police Department, as well as Indigenous communities and people with lived and lived experience, provided recommendations. We are planning to consider it. Then, consider the lessons learned from the summit and, above all, the processes and community structures to advance this important work in a collaborative manner. Boards, organizations and individuals are encouraged to continue working together to address opportunities identified as a result of the event. A comprehensive report will be published in the new year providing details of the discussions, decisions and opportunities in tackling this complex issue. For more information about the summit, visit www.phsd.ca/clinics-classes-events/otic-drug-summit.
