Tampere brings users and residents together to reduce substance-related harm

Tampere’s neighborhood work aims to reduce harm linked to substance use in public spaces by bringing users, residents and businesses together. The model, which has attracted interest from other Finnish cities, was developed in Tampere, Yle reports.

Workers in red jackets talk with people at Tullintori, a shopping centre, including people who use substances, students, business owners and passers-by. Their goal is not to move people who use substances out of sight, but to reduce the harm caused by substance use and help everyone share public spaces.

The work involves conversations, removing discarded drug-use equipment and organising events. Tampere’s risk management and safety director, Jouni Perttula, said the model combines supportive approaches with stricter measures. The city works with A-Kilta and the A-Clinic Foundation.

Tampere’s coordinator for preventive substance abuse work, Johanna Heine, said the initiative has produced encouraging results. Gatherings that caused concern and disruptive behaviour have decreased, and surveys have shown positive changes in people’s sense of safety.

Workers Tiina Salahub and Petri Niemelä said the approach is based on being present and talking with people. Summer activities include weekly picnics with coffee, pancakes, games and conversation, as well as larger events called Tullin Talkoot.

Salahub said local business owners have begun talking with people who use substances and asking how they are doing, helping to build a sense of community. She added that people who use substances also experience insecurity and may face a greater risk of being victims of violence. The work seeks to reduce stigma and affirm everyone’s right to spend time in public spaces without fear.

Tullintori shopping centre manager Paulariina Liuhtonen said the project had brought a calmer atmosphere and helped businesses and customers feel that safety matters.

The model began in the Tullintori area in summer 2024 and expanded to central Tampere the following summer. In 2026, it extended to Hervanta, Kaukajärvi and Annala. Heine said a pair of workers visited Tammerinpuisto after safety concerns increased, but the city’s central area safety group is considering next steps because one pair cannot resolve the situation alone.