What is harm reduction?

Harm reduction is a philosophy and practice that aims to minimize risk and maximize safety.

While the term “harm reduction” most often refers to reducing the negative impacts of substance use, at Plymouth we strive to take a harm reduction approach in everything we do.

How does harm reduction work at Plymouth?

At the center of our philosophy of care is the belief that people are the experts on their own lives. Our residents get to make changes if, and when, they are ready. The role of our staff is to support our residents in setting and achieving their own goals at their own pace.

In working with our residents, we create a nonjudgmental space so we can build trust and learn what is going on in their lives. If we learn that they are using substances (or engaging in other behaviors that come with risks), we help them minimize the harms associated with that behavior.

And by providing that nonjudgmental space, we also give residents a person to turn to if they want to pursue recovery. They know they will not be judged or shamed if they make missteps on their way to achieve their recovery goals, which can make it easier to start on the path to recovery.

Ultimately, we meet people where they’re at and tailor our care to each individual.

Mission Moment: Why Harm Reduction?

Learn about harm reduction from three people who practice it: resident Cindy, Housing Case Manager Jean, and researcher Dr. Seema Clifasefi.

Our harm reduction principles

Using best practices and the expertise of Plymouth staff, we developed six principles that capture our approach to harm reduction.

We are practical and realistic

Harm reduction is based on tools, research, and education to minimize risk and maximize safety and accepts the reality that substance use is part of our world.

We offer a continuum of care

Harm reduction applies to every person in every scenario, from the simple to the complex, while acknowledging that some activities are inherently safer than others.

We leave judgement at the door

No issue is one-sided. Non-coercive, collaborative care is always the goal.

Illustration of three people standing on blocks such that they are the same height.
We practice equity

We all deserve care, consideration, empathy, and the tools to be empowered in our decision-making processes.

Illustration of a woman looking in a mirror.
We believe people know themselves best

People are experts on their own lives; they make changes if and when they are ready.

Illustration representing one person asking another a question.
We ask “why?”

Strive to learn why and how a person is making decisions, but do not minimize or ignore the harms of substance use.

Learn more