Course Description

Working with Substance Misuse in a Homeless Setting WFD07-SMH-004

Code: WFD07-SMH04

Date: 2nd, 9th & 16th March 2021

Time: 10.00am - 1.00pm

Duration: 9 hours (x3 am sessions)

Location: Zoom Online Training Map

Eligibility Criteria: This course is available free to anyone working in the statutory or voluntary sector in Northern Ireland working in a homeless setting

Cost: FREE

Description: This course will provide an understanding of working with people affected by substance misuse in a homeless setting and will include areas such as nutrition, overdose and withdrawal, BBVs and supporting people affected by substance misuse. All 4 days must be completed.

Outcomes:

By the end of this course participants will;

• Have an understanding of the impact of substance misuse on homelessness
• Understand the basic principles of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and how they can be used within the homeless settings
• Understand, recognize and apply life support techniques to respond to potential drugs/alcohol overdose including administering Naloxone
• Know about the drugs of misuse and the specific risks to users
• Understand the nature and risks of poly drug use
• Understand a range of harm reduction practices
• Understand the importance of nutrition in reducing substance misuse related harm
• Understand the risks and personal safety issues for staff related to working with drug and alcohol users, and the importance of relevant protocols
• Know about blood born infections and the risks they hold
• Understand the risks of alcohol withdrawal and how to respond to such events
• Know how to signpost and refer individuals to other services
• Be  able  to  provide  support  and  deliver  brief  interventions  to  the  homeless population who are using substances

Relevance: This course is relevant to professionals working in a homeless setting or that encounter clients affected by substance misuse that are homeless

DANOS Mapping:

This course is mapped against the following Drug and Alcohol National Occupational Standards;

• AA1 Recognise problematic use of alcohol and or other substances and refer to services
• AD1 Raise awareness about substances, their use and effects
• AB2 Support individuals who are substance users
• AB5 Assess and act upon immediate risk of danger to individuals who have used alcohol and other substances
• SCDHSC06 Assist in the transfer of individuals between agencies and services
• AG2 Contribute to implementation of care or support plan activities
• AH10 Work with individuals to encourage a reduction in harmful alcohol consumption and drinking behavior