These principles were developed over a period of about four years in the 1990s amid much debate among early harm reductionists, who came to consensus on these enduring principles of harm reduction.

Creating effective policies in harm reduction work means grounding them in your mission, being thoughtful about their impact, and ensuring they’re both practical and inclusive. The tips below offer a starting point for organisations looking to build policies that reflect their values, meet external requirements, and genuinely support the people they serve and work with.