Peel Meayeath, Head Nurse at Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinic

Dear John,

You may be unsurprised to hear us say that the so called “war on drugs” has failed. For years we have argued that, despite its stated intentions, prohibition has failed to reduce harm related to people using drugs.  

Instead, it has persecuted vulnerable people, torn families apart, made others afraid to seek medical help, left people unsure of what substances they were taking, and ensured prisons are overcrowded with non-violent drug offenders.  

We are calling for a harm reduction approach to drugs now! 

In Cambodia we are involved in a groundbreaking project supporting the health and wellbeing of people who have used drugs. At every stage, we promote harm reduction over criminalisation.  

We work alongside the police to test street drugs for potency and contaminants, to prevent overdosing and poisoning. We provide medical and mental health support as people address drug addiction and when people have contracted HIV through drug use. 

Crucially, we also maintain a children's home, so the children of parents receiving treatment are looked after until the family is ready to be reunited. 

Effective policies and programmes must look at the bigger picture, including the wider causes and consequences of drug addiction, and ensure that people get the support they need and deserve.  

Whatever you give to our Cambodia in Motion Appeal will contribute to innovative and impactful projects like this in Cambodia.  

Yours sincerely,

Siaffa Bunduka
Supporter Engagement Manager

P.S. Donate to our Cambodia in Motion Appeal by 30th June 2023 and your donation will be doubled up to a total of £2,500!