9.7 Involving People with Lived & Living Experience (PWLLE)

The continuous use of stigmatizing labels and stereotypes, as well as prohibitionist drug policy, has made it challenging to alter how PWUS are viewed and treated within society (CCSA, 2019). One step toward changing constructions and the treatment of PWUS is to recognize their expertise on the subject matter and involve/include them in (re)designing policies pertaining to psychoactive substances and their use. Such involvement includes the design, implementation and review of treatment and intervention programs that promote health, healing, and recovery (See Chapter on Harm Reduction). This contributes to a sense of inclusion for PWUS and provides first-hand lived and living experience to help address some of the real problems/challenges associated with drug policy and treatment (Open Society Foundation, 2008).

Click the following link to learn more about the importance of involving people with lived and living experience (PWLLE):

Nothing About Us Without Us: A Manifesto By People Who Use Illegal Drugs