Bendigo Community Health Services will host a free Naloxone Awareness Day on July 11 to combat the alarming rate of overdoses in the Greater Bendigo community.

Coroner’s Court of Victoria data shows Greater Bendigo had 18 heroin-related overdose deaths between 2014 and 2018 with only Geelong recording more.

Alcohol and Other Drugs team manager Jan Dunlop said Naloxone could mean the difference between life and death for anyone overdosing on illegal or legal opioids.

“Naloxone temporarily reverses the effects of any opioid drug with no side effects,” Ms Dunlop said.

“Most people think of illegal drugs such as heroin when overdoses are involved but it’s really important to remember prescribed opioid drugs can lead to overdose if not used the right way too.

“The person overdosing will not be able to administer the Naloxone so it’s important partners, family members or friends of opioid users learn how to use the medicine correctly.”

Ms Dunlop said the Naloxone Awareness Day was a great opportunity for people to talk with Bendigo Community Health Services Needle Syringe Program staff one-on-one.

“We offer a free Naloxone script with a short 10-minute training session – it’s a decision that could save your life or that of a loved one or friend,” she said.

Ms Dunlop said people could visit the Naloxone Awareness Day between 11am and 1pm on July 11 in the Fork In The Road community hub at BCHS Central site, 165-171 Hargreaves Street.

To learn more about the alcohol and other drug programs at Bendigo Community Health Services visit www.bchs.com.au or call (03) 5448 1600.