Needle Exchange

For people who choose to inject drugs, using fresh, clean injecting equipment, and not sharing equipment, is very important in order to prevent the spread of blood borne viruses like HIV and Hepatitis, and to help prevent infections and other problems. There are several places in Bolton where drug users can get sterile injecting equipment.

Bolton’s main needle and syringe exchange is located at Bentley House with Bolton Drug Service.

The confidential exchange service provides clean injecting equipment such as needle, syringes, filters, swabs, and portable sharps bins, facilities to dispose of used equipment, and advice on harm minimisation and safer injecting practice. There is also a dedicated nurse who can provide healthcare advice and assessment, for example how to care for an infected injecting site. Staff at the exchange can also test for blood borne viruses like HIV and Hepatitis B and C, and offer pre- and post-test advice and referral for treatment if necessary. They can also offer vaccination against Hepatitis B.

The central Needle Exchange at Bolton Drug Service (at Bentley House) is open Monday midday to 4:50pm, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9:00am to 4:50pm and Thursday 9:00am to 6:30pm

There are needle exchange facilities available at 360° (click here for a map/more details) for people under 19 years old. The needle and syringe exchange scheme also operates from a number of pharmacies in Bolton. For a list of these, please see the 'Needle Exchange section under 'Our Services'.