Susanna Prepeliczay and Henning Schmidt-Semisch
This study aims to describe and analyse an approach in the city of Bremen (Germany) to establish streetwork-supported tolerance zones for local open drug and alcohol scenes to…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to describe and analyse an approach in the city of Bremen (Germany) to establish streetwork-supported tolerance zones for local open drug and alcohol scenes to reduce related disorder and nuisance in public spaces.
Design/methodology/approach
The qualitative methodology included systematic participant observations at public sites of drug and alcohol use, and problem-centred interviews with different groups of respondents (residents, passers-by, trades people, drug users, experts from addiction help and police).
Findings
In residential districts, tolerance zones were well accepted by their target group and found to reduce perceived disorder and nuisance in public space. However, their success depends on the social and spatial conditions of the chosen location, its surrounding urban infrastructure, cooperation among local actors and characteristics of drug using groups.
Originality/value
Usually, policing of open drug scenes focuses on repression and law enforcement. The example of Bremen suggests that streetwork-supported tolerance zones dedicated to the drug scene can substantially reduce disorder and nuisance in public space.
Details
Keywords
This conference report of the 2005 LIDA Conference captures the varied presentations by speakers from the USA, Europe and the Baltic States.
Abstract
Purpose
This conference report of the 2005 LIDA Conference captures the varied presentations by speakers from the USA, Europe and the Baltic States.
Design/methodology/approach
Digital libraries are in a maturing state and different developments were shared and examples of projects were given.
Findings
This is an annual meeting in this region of the world that brings a talented list of speakers from North America and Europe.
Research limitations/implications
Small conference.
Practical implications
This is a focused conference that has proven itself over time to attract excellent keynote speakers that come to this part of the world to share expertise and ideas.
Originality/value
This conference attracts major prominent speakers so the themes are important and well documented. The annual themes lend to many subthemes such as user evaluation, usability, digital reference, and other new digital applications.