OD 999 Receives National Award
Fri 28th Dec 2007
Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Action Team's (LDAAT's) OD 999 campaign was named Runner Up in the Best Social Marketing Category as part of the 2007 Association of Healthcare Communicators Awards.
OD 999, which ran earlier this year, was a campaign, to help reduce the harm caused to those affected by substance misuse. Due to the nature of their problem, drug users are at risk of overdose but are often too scared to seek help and this campaign aimed to save lives by encouraging people to call an ambulance in the event of an overdose.
The development of the OD 999 campaign relied heavily on the involvement of reformed or reforming addicts who gave their time as volunteers to help choose appropriate campaign materials, with the aim of reaching this vulnerable and often difficult to reach group.
Charlotte Billington Communications Manager for LDAAT was responsible for co-ordinating OD 999, “We are delighted to collect this prestigious award. OD 999 has had a genuine impact in Lancashire. By having ex-users involved we were able to truly understand how we could reach this chaotic audience and ensure the campaign was successful".
OD 999 branded cards, posters and leaflets were distributed to agencies and services across Lancashire who help drug users. These were given out to anyone who has a substance misuse problem. There were also a number of specially organised overdose training events across Lancashire, which provided life saving advice. A special website was also set up where people can access information on the recovery position http://www.od999.org/
Mark Hindle Chair of Lancashire Drug and Alcohol Action Team (LDAAT) highlighted the importance of targeted campaigns: “As a drug and alcohol action team we have a responsibility to tackle substance misuse in Lancashire. This campaign has helped to create awareness to those who need help the most. By encouraging calls to the emergency services we were also able to promote the specialised treatment and help that is available.”
Paul was addicted to heroin for 8years, he attended several OD 999 focus groups and planning sessions. He was also on the panel, which selected the final artwork for the campaign. Paul explained why he supported the campaign “When I was addicted to drugs I lost everything, being involved in OD 999 has meant that I can use what was a very sad and dark time in my life to hopefully help someone “.