Before spending large amounts of money on a detached / outreach work scheme to reach drug users who don’t come to existing services, it is wise to examine those services to see if they might be made more attractive. If outreach work still seems to be an option, cast around for local experience and use it. Plan the scheme carefully and be clear about the goals. Be aware of the implications for existing services and recognise that such a different style of work will require a different style of management.