Social Care and Health

Finding a used needle or syringe can be worrying. Although there is little risk of contracting HIV infection, there is a very small chance that any cut or injury caused by a used needle could result in Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, tetanus or similar infection.

Children should be told to immediately inform an adult if they find a discarded needle, but not to touch or play with it.

How to dispose of used needles and syringes:

1. Find a container, i.e. a coke can/bottle, or glass jar with a secure lid. The container needs to be made of strong material that is unable to be pierced.
2. Wear thick gloves (i.e. gardening gloves) when handling needles or syringes.
3. Take the container to the needles and avoid carrying used needles around. Pick up and hold the syringe by the base and not the point of the needle.
4. Once you have safely secured the needle and syringe, you can take them to a needle exchange pharmacy, GP, The BRIDGE Project or Project Six where they will be safely disposed of.
5. In the event of finding a number of needles please call 01274 431000.

Needlestick injury
If you injure yourself with a needle, remain calm and try not to panic; encourage the wound to bleed by squeezing firmly and hold under cold running water for up to 5 minutes. Dry the wound and apply a plaster. Do not suck the wound.

If you are concerned, contact an accident and emergency department or a local drugs agency like The BRIDGE Project or Project Six.

Information regarding needles and syringes, and health and safety can be obtained from the nearest needle exchange outlet, The BRIDGE Project, Project Six, or health centre.