Exploring the potential of implementing managed alcohol programmes to reduce risk of COVID-19 infection and transmission, and wider harms, for people experiencing alcohol dependency and homelessness in Scotland
Date
2021
Authors
Parkes, Tessa
Carver, Hannah
Masterton, Wendy
Booth, Hazel
Ball, Lee
Murdoch, Helen
Falzon, Danilo
Pauly, Bernie
Matheson, Catriona
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Abstract
People who experience homelessness and alcohol dependency are more vulnerable than
the general population to risks/harms relating to COVID-19. This mixed methods study explored
stakeholder perspectives concerning the impact of COVID-19 and the potential utility of introducing
managed alcohol programmes (MAPs) in Scotland as part of a wider health/social care response for
this group. Data sources included: 12 case record reviews; 40 semi-structured qualitative interviews;
and meeting notes from a practitioner-researcher group exploring implementation of MAPs within
a third sector/not-for-profit organisation. A series of paintings were curated as a novel part of the
research process to support knowledge translation. The case note review highlighted the complexity
of health problems experienced, in addition to alcohol dependency, including polysubstance use,
challenges related to alcohol access/use during lockdown, and complying with stay-at-home rules.
Qualitative analysis generated five subthemes under the theme of ‘MAPs as a response to COVID-190 :
changes to alcohol supply/use including polysubstance use; COVID-19-related changes to substance
use/homelessness services; negative changes to services for people with alcohol problems; the
potential for MAPs in the context of COVID-19; and fears and concerns about providing MAPs as a
COVID-19 response. We conclude that MAPs have the potential to reduce a range of harms for this
group, including COVID-19-related harms.
Description
Keywords
alcohol, alcohol use disorders, homelessness, harm reduction, managed alcohol programmes, COVID-19
Citation
Parkes, T., Carver, H., Masterton, W., Booth, H., Ball, L., Murdoch, H., . . . Matheson, C. (2021). “Exploring the potential of implementing managed alcohol programmes to reduce risk of COVID-19 infection and transmission, and wider harms, for people experiencing alcohol dependency and homelessness in Scotland.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(23), 12523. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312523