Chemsex and Control: When Safeguarding Becomes Harmful

How do you respond when someone discloses chemsex, all without panic, judgment, or stripping away their dignity?In this episode, Matthew Fuller joins us to explore the complex realities of chemsex and why traditional safeguarding approaches often miss the mark.We unpack sexualised drug use, stigma, and why chemsex is so often misunderstood as “too risky” rather than deeply contextual. Matthew challenges professionals to look honestly at unconscious bias, cultural competency, and the real harm caused when safeguarding frameworks prioritise control over autonomy.This conversation is about more than drugs or sex. It’s about trust, empowerment, and why dignity is not optional if safety is the goal.---Matthew previously worked as a Care Coordinator & Keyworker for 'Controlling Chemsex', a charity created and run by professionals with a long experience of providing Chemsex support. Matthew is now an LGBTQ+ Recovery Support worker, as well as a Change and Accountability Coach. You can connect with Matthew: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewctfuller/ ----Useful Links: https://buymeacoffee.com/cornerstonesafeguarding  - Every coffee you buy helps us keep creating practical tools and content for safeguarding professionals like youTo find out more about Cornerstone Safeguarding - www.CornerstoneSafeguarding.co.uk Email us at Cornerstone: [email protected] in a meeting to discuss your safeguarding needs: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ0ZwllED1_R0eAmzurUNbXW6dk92TtCp9BE8oysOnlPwBl3L2vNEooyvSJ3fQaQBk_q1onKflh4Subscribe to Cornerstone Connect: https://cornerstonesafeguarding.co.uk/resources/cornerstone-connect-sign-up/ for fresh safeguarding insights, priority access to support, and exclusive discounts. Chris East on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-east-801496174/Leah East on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-east-cornerstone/Producers of this episode: Chris East, Leah EastHost of this episode: Chris East