Evaluation of Here4U Scotland application

Citation

Daneshvar H, Strachan G & Matheson C (2023) Evaluation of Here4U Scotland application. Scottish Government. Digital Lifelines Scotland. https://digitallifelines.scot/media/1305/evaluation-of-here4u-v6-final.pdf

Abstract
The "Here4U Scotland" mobile app aimed to provide remote, non-judgmental supervision and support for individuals using drugs alone in Aberdeen, Scotland. The app was developed by Brave company in Canada and piloted in Aberdeen through Alcohol and Drugs Action (ADA), funded by Scotland's Digital Lifelines program. Given rising drug-related deaths in Scotland and complexities hindering supervised consumption sites, virtual remote support via an app presented a promising alternative approach. The app allows users to connect with a trained "supporter" during solitary drug use to improve access to services, promote safer consumption through harm reduction advice, and establish trusted connections with local support services. To evaluate the project, interviews were conducted with app users, supporters, and stakeholders in harm reduction and local services. Key themes emerged around usability, acceptability of the technology, the personal aspects of digitally connecting with supporters, and impacts on organisations and the broader environment. The app launched in April 2022 after testing with ambulance services. A total of 74 calls were logged during this period. Users valued privacy, relationships, safety, convenience, and mental health support through the app. However, concerns were raised about data sharing, digital literacy barriers, and limited 24/7 access. Supporters gained flexibility though lacked visual assessment capabilities, suggesting specialist training and recruitment were needed for expansion. Potential improvements cited included enhanced features like video calling and drug alerts, ongoing funding and dedicated staff, strategies for building trust, and better agency coordination for emergencies. Recommendations focused on engagement and co-design with users, addressing accessibility and inclusion, support for adoption, trust-building and partnerships, evolution, and long-term sustainability. The core emphasis should remain on communication with users and supporters to create shared ownership through consistent co-design. Translating remote supervision into increased individual and collective responsibility could be pivotal in enhancing harm reduction efforts. This early evidence demonstrates the app's potential value, but further development is needed to optimise the impact, refine features, and drive user behaviour changes around technology adoption for enhanced remote support.