Located discreetly behind the capital's central railway station on Route de Thionville, the "Abrigado" supervised injection site has served the community for over two decades.
Minister of Health Martine Deprez, accompanied by Burkhard Blienert, the German Federal Commissioner for Drugs, recently visited Abrigado to assess its facilities. The containers that make up the site have become relatively dilapidated, but renovation plans are in the pipeline.
Beyond its role as a safe space for drug consumption, Abrigado plays a pivotal role in addressing complex issues faced by individuals struggling with substance abuse. Minister Deprez elaborated on the broader mission of the facility, stating that Abrigado serves as a vital resource in addressing multifaceted challenges. It is a starting point for individuals seeking stability, "and once that stability has been achieved, other associations take over to support them, so that they can be reintegrated into society, with access to accommodations and free from addiction, if possible."
In addition to its primary function as a low-risk drug consumption room, Abrigado provides essential ancillary services, including needle exchange, medical assistance, emergency accommodation, and specialised programmes tailored to women. While such facilities also exist in Germany, Blienert acknowledged that they are "not all as well organised as in Luxembourg."
Blienert emphasised the importance of comprehensive services in addressing the diverse needs of individuals battling addiction, advocating for a holistic approach to preventive health care.
Plans for renovation and expansion at Abrigado
Acknowledging the ageing infrastructure at Abrigado, Minister Deprez reassured stakeholders of imminent upgrades during a recent meeting with the Luxembourg City municipality.
"Plans are underway to install new containers at a slightly relocated site, with a subsequent construction of a new building at the current location," Minister Deprez stated.
The evolving needs of an ageing population of drug users prompt considerations for enhanced care and support services. While existing structures suffice for now, there are discussions about establishing dedicated facilities tailored to the unique needs of older users. However, concrete timelines for these initiatives are yet to be finalised.
In a bid to address specific needs within the community, a new facility catering to women is slated to open its doors in Neudorf by the end of July. Initially, the centre will be open only during the day and will offer daytime accommodation for the women in need. If necessary, this site may also be expanded in the future, according to the Ministry of Health.
