The Loop introduces online MDMA safety training session
The UK-based drug safety and harm reduction charity The Loop has announced a new online safety training session focused on MDMA. Scheduled for June 24th from 18:00 to 21:30 BST, the three-and-a-half-hour course aims to provide participants with an in-depth understanding of MDMA and teach harm reduction strategies.
The course is designed to be "above entry-level" and assumes participants already have a basic knowledge of MDMA. Topics covered will include:
History of MDMA: Tracing the development and use of the substance over time.
Usage in Nightclubs and Festivals: Examining how MDMA is used in these settings.
Medical Applications: Discussing potential future medical uses of MDMA.
Effects and Risks: Understanding the physical and psychological impacts of MDMA use.
Harm Reduction: Learning strategies to minimize the risks associated with MDMA use.
The course targets individuals working in environments where MDMA use is common, such as drug services, universities, health services, local authorities, public health, police forces, and the night-time economy, including event management and nightlife venues.
Since its inception in 2012, The Loop has been a leading force in drug safety and harm reduction in the UK. The charity provides drug-checking services and issues alerts about dangerous substances in circulation. In 2022, they warned festival-goers about high-strength and fake pills found at events like Secret Garden Party and Parklife Festival. The charity also launched free drug-checking services in Bristol earlier this year.
After a period of reduced services in 2023 due to licensing issues, drug testing is set to resume this summer. The Home Office has issued drug-testing licenses to several leading UK festivals, ensuring the continuation of these essential harm-reduction services.
Tickets for the upcoming training course are priced at £49. However, thanks to funding from The Purple Guide, those working in music festivals or the outdoor events industry can access the course at a discounted rate of £29. Interested participants can secure their tickets here.
The importance of harm reduction efforts is underscored by international incidents. For example, Australian harm reduction groups have called for nationwide pill testing after a series of suspected MDMA overdoses at Melbourne's Hardmission festival earlier this year.
The Loop's training course offers valuable knowledge and strategies for reducing the risks associated with MDMA use, promoting safer environments in nightlife and festival settings.
You can secure your spot for The Loop’s ‘MDMA - A Deep Dive‘ course here.