‘Naloxone Man’ George Charlton flanked by Alicia Hoser, left, and campaigner Sandra Johnson in King’s Cross last Friday

THOUSANDS of medical kits that reverse the impact of drug overdose in a few seconds are being distributed across Camden. Capturing Camden – a group of residents backed by the council – is going around the borough training families, friends and also high street businesses about the “naloxone” needle injection.

It can be administered through clothing and works on anyone who has overdosed on drugs such as methadone and heroin, but also the commonly prescribed painkillers such as codeine.

Capturing Camden’s Alicia Hoser, a film director who lives in Cromer Street, King’s Cross, said: “It’s a genius drug that has been around for a long time. The kit is the size of a big Tic Tac box. It’s got packaging and it’s very simple to use.

“You could easily keep it in your bag. It blocks the opioids in the brain temporarily, for half an hour.”

She added: “Overdose can affect anybody. It can be people taking too many painkillers, a double dose. Anyone who self-medicates, really.”

Ms Hoser said the kits were more likely to be used than CPR that passers-by can often shy away from because of concerns about hygiene. On Friday, her group met staff at the Voices Radio station in King’s Cross to train them how to do the simple injection.

They were joined by George “Naloxone Man” Charlton, who has been campaigning for the kits to be more widely available since it saved his life last year. Capturing Camden is due to take over a space in the ground floor space of the new Buck Street Market in Camden Town.

The group is made up of people who have “lived experience” of drug services and addiction. Change Grow Live, which provides homeless services, is providing the kits as part of a new substance misuse services contract with Camden.

A Camden Council spokesperson said:  “We are distributing naloxone kits to those who may need support with their drug use, and their family, friends, carers and anyone who may come into contact with those using drugs and is able to help.”

l If you or someone you know needs support with drug or alcohol use contact Change Grow Live on 020 7485 2722 or email Camden.referrals@cgl.org.uk