Maintaining good hygiene is foundational to both physical health and mental well-being. This is particularly true for people who use drugs (PWID), a population that faces unique challenges in accessing basic amenities such as clean water and showers. Highlighting the importance of such resources cannot be overstated. The South African Network of People Who Use Drugs (SANPUD) welcomes the Belhaven Harm Reduction Centre and Viva Con Agua South Africa partnership to offer clean water and showers, a milestone that promises to significantly uplift the lives of our clients and the broader Greyville community.

Health Implications of Poor Hygiene

People who inject drugs (PWID) are at a high risk of infectious diseases, including blood-borne viral infections and bacterial or fungal diseases. The latter infections often manifest as skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) such as cutaneous abscesses, cellulitis, and ulcers. Left untreated, these conditions can escalate into life-threatening situations. Access to fundamental hygiene resources like showers can serve as a preventive health measure, reducing the incidence of these infections and thereby enhancing the quality of life for PWID.

The Mental Health Connection

Good hygiene practices are intrinsically linked to self-esteem and mental health. Being able to shower, wear clean clothing, and take care of one’s appearance fosters a sense of dignity and self-worth. This improvement in mental well-being can translate into positive behaviour changes and greater engagement with health and social services. Our respondents at Bellhaven affirm this directly:

• Respondent 1: "I welcome the showers that have been provided for us here at Bellhaven. It is nice to be able to shower and get clean. It makes me feel happy and nice. And for that, I am very grateful."
• Respondent Mzwandile: "I have just had a shower here at Nani Manzi showers, and it was very nice. The water was very hot and nice shower. I am very excited and anyone else who wants to come and have a shower here is very welcome."

A Community Effort

SANPUD celebrates Belhaven’s collaboration with Viva Con Agua South Africa as it marks a significant step in our efforts to create an inclusive and healthy environment for all. The launch of this initiative, spearheaded by Londeka Mgwaba, the newly appointed Nina Manzi Project Lead, is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of our clients and the Greyville community.

Londeka has successfully led the operational launch of the Nina Manzi project, which aims to provide clean water and showers to our clients. This initiative is not just about access to basic needs but also about fostering a sense of community and belonging. Clean water and showers are simple yet profound means to restore dignity and offer a pathway to greater health and wellness.

Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Partnerships

At the launch event the Belhaven Harm Reduction centre also highlighted several new partnerships designed to advance our mission of promoting inclusion, health, and well-being. Our objective is to create spaces where everyone feels valued and supported, especially those facing the dual challenges of drug use and homelessness. Access to hygiene resources is just the beginning; our broader vision encompasses a holistic approach to health, involving nutrition, mental health services, and social support systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, access to hygiene resources such as clean water and showers is fundamental for the health and mental well-being of people who use drugs. Beyond the immediate physical health benefits, these resources contribute to a sense of dignity and self-worth, crucial elements for mental health. Bellhaven, in partnership with Viva Con Agua South Africa, is proud to provide these essential services and looks forward to a future filled with collaborative efforts toward a healthier, more inclusive community.

We are grateful to have the unwavering support of our team and community members. Together, we are building a brighter, healthier future for everyone involved.