Crack cocaine in Ballymun remains a persistent feature of the local drug patterns of use as well as within sale and supply networks despite an active response from multiple agencies, in the five years since the 2019 report. Responses have included targeted operations/seizures; greater knowledge on patterns of use; crack cocaine specific training for practitioners and services; enhanced service responses including expanded outreach, crack pipes distribution and harm reduction information and supports; family support for family members affected by crack cocaine use; as well as providing food and hygiene support ensuring basic needs are met. Despite the complex needs which exist in Ballymun, it continues to demonstrate creative and participatory ways of responding to the presenting challenges and consequences. Ballymun has strength in community and collaboration. There are well established addiction services and supports which integrate person and area responses with local youth, family, health and housing resources. The range of local structures, programmes and processes in place optimises the capacity and possibilities of inter-agency work to improve overall outcomes.

The current research aims to build on findings emanating from the previous report and to explore the experiences of women using crack cocaine including their substance use and crack cocaine use trajectories; health and social experiences and intervention and supports needs.