1 minute read
PRODUCTS
Since 2016, Brave has interviewed and listened to hundreds of people to inform our product development.
Brave Buttons
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Brave Buttons are internet-enabled smart buttons that allow individuals who are using drugs in supportive housing, shelters, restrooms, or alleyways to connect with peer support when at risk of overdose. Residents in supportive housing can request support for safe consumption monitoring by pushing Brave Buttons installed in their rooms. Button pushes trigger a text message to peer workers and building staff, requesting an in-person check-in within five minutes. After three minutes, a reminder text is sent and support workers can respond to confirm the resident is safe.
The button concept emerged from listening to users’ needs in our work with the harm reduction community in Vancouver. Our research revealed that people living in supportive housing, and their guests, are at risk of overdose in their rooms; interventions are desired by residents and building staff. Growing client interest in Brave Buttons validates our user-centered design. We are actively serving one button client in Vancouver and have letters of intent for three more locations starting in Q1 2019.
Be Safe
The Be Safe app is designed for people who are using drugs alone or in remote locations, connecting them with supporters who provide remote supervision. A person at risk of can use the app to connect with remote, peer support through a voice call. If the supporter identifies an overdose, the person at risk’s location can be revealed to send help. People who request supervision remain anonymous and their location is only revealed if it is necessary to keep them safe.
Anyone using drugs can request supervision through the app, but the product is specifically de signed for people in isolated areas without immediate medical response. Be Safe offers unaccompanied drug users a network of resources and support not otherwise accessible in their environments. Developed in collaboration with PwrdBy, a beta version of the Be Safe app is currently being tested in a pilot in Vancouver, BC.
