O que dizem as pessoas utilizadoras de drogas sobre a Sala de Consumo do Porto? Processo de Decisão face à Utilização da Sala de Consumo Assistido do Porto

Abstract

The present investigation aims to understand the decision-making processes of people who use psychoactive substances in the western area of Porto regarding their use of the "Porto Seguro" Drug Consumption Room (DCR). The purpose of this study is to compare the perceptions and motivations of people who use drugs (PWUD), exploring the factors that influence their decision to attend or not to attend this service. Furthermore, it aims to comparatively explore these two groups regarding fundamental indicators of compliance with the objectives of the DCR and harm reduction standards. To accomplish this, semi-structured interviews were conducted with two distinct groups: one that regularly uses the SCA and another that consumes in public spaces. The results show that PWUD who attend the DCR generally have an overall positive opinion of the service. However, they express signs of dissatisfaction with resource limitations and the layout of the space. In contrast, PWUD who do not attend the DCR express a negative view. Both groups reveal a concerning lack of informal support and face serious victimization situations, where violence is a pressing concern. Although PWUD who use the DCR benefit from formal support and access to safe materials, they also use psychoactive substances in public spaces due to the limited number of simultaneous consumption slots available at "Porto Seguro." On the other hand, PWUD who do not access the DCR do not identify any specific challenges associated with drug use in public places but describe difficulties in accessing the room's services. This study provides a comprehensive view of the experiences of PWUD regarding the DCR and consumption in public spaces, including recommendations for service improvement and greater alignment with the needs of this vulnerable population. It aims to contribute to broader discussions on effective public health strategies and social justice for people who use drugs.