| Abstrakt: |
According to an article in Gay Times, there have been up to 1,000 deaths related to chemsex in the past decade. The article discusses the challenges faced by those involved in chemsex, including the fear of police response instead of medical help during emergencies. The secretive nature of the chemsex scene makes it difficult to obtain accurate data on the harms caused. The article emphasizes the need for greater awareness and support for those affected, including women and the broader LGBTQIA+ community. The decline of queer spaces and the rise of at-home testing kits contribute to the challenges faced by the chemsex community. London's 56 Dean Street sexual health clinic has been a leader in providing specialized services for those involved in chemsex, but there is a need for more comprehensive support services after the passing of the project's founder. Darren Murphy, a former service user, is working to fill this gap by connecting LGBTQIA+ organizations to provide holistic services. While similar clinics have been established in Merseyside and Manchester, there is still a lack of dedicated services in other areas with large LGBTQIA+ populations. The article concludes by highlighting the need for more awareness, funding, and support to address the significant public health issue of chemsex-related harms, including fatalities. [Extracted from the article] |
