In line with the Sheffield Students’ Union’s commitment to creating an accessible campus through improved physical and digital space, sharps bins are now available on campus. This implementation follows from the policy’s conception in 2023.
Liberation and Activities Officer Laura Edwards commented that:
“students no longer have to choose between carrying used needles or avoiding taking medication when required on campus”.
Additionally, they commented that “fewer students who inject will have to avoid coming onto campus and miss out on education and university life”.
After discussion with the University estates team, it was decided that, for safety reasons, sharps bins would be better introduced in reception desks rather than bathrooms. Sharps bins are now available behind the SU welcome desk and in the receptions of major university buildings such as the Diamond, Information Commons, and Arts Tower.
Having worked with the policy writer in 2023, Laura expressed that “it was wonderful to be able to help implement it this year in my role as an officer”. They have asked if students can’t find information posters or sharps bins in the relevant buildings to contact the university facilities team.
The full list of buildings with sharps bins available is as follows: Diamond, Information Commons, Mappin Hall, Arts Tower, Firth Court, Medical School, Wave, and 3 Solly Street.
