Outgoing needle exchange provider mulls injunction

The Disc Trust, which administers the Dunedin needle-exchange programme, has not ruled out seeking an injunction against the new contract-holders. Photo: Peter McIntosh

The outgoing providers of Dunedin’s needle exchange service is not ruling out seeking an injunction against the new contract holders, the Otago Daily Times understands.

The Disc Trust, which has administered the needle-exchange programme since 1988, has lost its contract.

From next month, the programme will be run by Christchurch-based health services provider He Waka Tapu, which is part of Te Waipounamu Collective.

But the ODT understands the handover has been beset by a lack of communication and the Disc Trust are fearful the new provider will not be ready with the infrastructure in time.

A group of Disc Trust clients and workers sent management an open letter requesting they seek an injunction in order to delay the handover until communication channels become more open, and they provide some guarantees over infrastructure.

"We feel that the lack of transparency and engagement with the community over this process constitutes a breach to the spirit of the programme."

Part of the reason for seeking this injunction is the fact He Waka Tapu has not had prior experience in needle exchange.

Disc Trust executive director Philippa Jones said it had received and appreciated the letter.

"What I can say is that the Disc Trust is considering all options that are available to it.

"We continue to receive many inquiries and concerns from our clients about this change, and we are concerned for their wellbeing."

There was concern about the short transition period.

"Disc Trust has not yet received a transition plan from the new provider or any plan outlining how they intend to operate the service.

"We’re concerned for the clients and the continuity of service given the short timeframe to transition the service.

"Our greatest concern is that the consumers of the service have had no input into the change."

The ODT approached Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand about the trust’s concerns.

HNZ director of Starting Well, Deborah Woodley, said it was confident Disc was provided with well-researched information and advice at all times during the procurement process.

"Te Waipounamu Collective will begin service delivery from October and is committed to having people with lived and living experience in significant roles in the delivery and leadership of the programme."

HNZ would ensure relationships across the region were developed and maintained, she said.

"The collective is also committed to working with the two providers who will continue providing services elsewhere in New Zealand."

matthew.littlewood@odt.co.nz