Initiatives that offer black users accessibility, that are flexible and versatile in approach, if we are to talk about there being 'freedom of choice' for black clients when it comes to using services. Just as the Millennium is considered an important milestone in acknowledging change, I for one would like to see radical change in the ability of purchasers and providers of services to improve their ability to think. Think of meeting the needs of all users in the agenda for the next Millennium. It's time to recognise that in the absence or want of a pharmaceutical alternative, there is no quick fix for crack users. There is no magic wand that can be waved to make users disappear as soon as things become too difficult.
Work has to be done - real work.
To date we have seen the funding and implementation of more than enough pseudo-initiatives, resulting in more than enough disenfranchised black workers and users who lack the overall organisational support required to get the job done or achieve realistic aims in terms of overcoming their drugs problems. Progress has passed its sell by date, services must take on board the full scope and intentions of black users' needs when touting black or ethnic minority slogans. It is time to ensure that all black clients receive counselling from a black, well-trained and where possible, qualified drugs worker, if they are to have any faith in the ability of the service. On entering the service it is imperative that black users are not alienated by the workers' lack of cultural understanding or unfamiliarity with the service environment. It's time to develop effective means of communication with black users.