Chemsex in the North East is a multi-method social research project that aims to address a gap in knowledge and understanding about: 

1. Experiences of participants in the North East’s Chemsex scene (including hook-ups and parties).
2. Spaces (online and physical) where chemsex is organised.
3. Places in which chemsex practices (drug use, sex) occur.
4. Prevalence and patterns of polydrug use associated with chemsex.
5. Opportunities for community (outreach) support for chemsex scene participants.

Chemsex in the North East project will build much needed evidence base and expert network around chemsex practices, meanings, and motivations for the chemsex community in Newcastle and the North East which will assist to inform Newcastle City Council and their local services. This data will inform outreach materials for people in the chemsex scene who are currently not in touch with services (council, charity) and who may need support and information, including around drug harm reduction, sexual health, and youth exploitation. 

To date, there are no studies that focus on the chemsex scene solely in Newcastle and/or the North East. One study from 2017 drew a sample of 18 responses, from a wider study of 954 participants from sexual health services and a local LGBT charity in Newcastle, that participated in chemsex (Gilmore et al., 2017). While this data does exist, it is minimal and is almost a decade out of date. Due to the rise in chemsex, as outlined in academic literature, in connection with technological advances, gentrification, and socio-cultural shifts within the LGBTQ+ community it is crucial further our  knowledge and understanding about chemsex spaces, polydrug use patterns, and chemsex experiences in the city and region.