Evaluation of the low threshold centres for drug users ''Gassenzimmer'' in Basel

In June 1991 the city of Basel established the first low threshold centre (LTC) subsidized by the government after various private initiatives of ''Live & Survive'' aids. This low threshold facility which was supplemented in 1992 by two additional LTCs aimed at harm and risk reduction. The evaluation of LTCs was conducted by the Institute for Social and Preventive Medicine of the University of Basel on behalf of the Federal Office of Health. Combining qualitative and quantitative research methods its structure was evaluated regarding the realization of its own objectives. The LTCs reached a great variety of drug addicts which were characterized by a remarkable heterogeneity The majority of users were aged between 20 and 30, a quarter of them were female. Differences were found in housing conditions, subsistence and the degree of social integration. The facilities of the institutions were extensively used. In 1993 and 1994 a daily average of 250 to 300 visits was recorded in the injecting rooms only. The clientele were mainly residents of the Basel area. This lead to the conclusion that there was no attractive effect on more remote regions. As a consequence of the extensive use of the facilities a movement of the drug scene away from the street into the LTCs could be observed. In general, a stabilization or even an improvement of the physical condition of its users could be noticed. Another important feature was the improvement of the drug addicts' social integration. The main reason for this was the relationship between users and staff. Due to the shortage of personnel this promising base for further psychosocial work could not be adaquately developed. The investigators not only concluded that there is a need for a continuing maintenance of these facilities but also that additional efforts to improve the psychosocial services would be justified.