Bristol declared ‘city of harm reduction’ as council backs less punitive drug policy

Bristol City Council has formally declared the city a “city of harm reduction,” pledging to prioritize treatment over punishment.

• Bristol City Council has formally declared the city a “city of harm reduction” in a motion agreed at a full council meeting.
• Green councillors said the declaration is intended to pressure the Labour government to allow a legal drug-consumption facility in Bristol.
• Green councillor Cara Lavan said she hopes other local authorities will follow suit to create a “domino effect” for policy change.
• Labour councillor Kaz Self said there was concern the declaration was the “thin end of the wedge.”