Substance Use and Abuse – 6hrs

This one day training workshop is for support workers and managers in residential
or community settings who wish to explore and develop an understanding
of the complex issues that surround substance use and its potential for
abuse by service users. Particular emphasis is on the Class B drug
Cannabis and legal highs. The course will use a variety of teaching methods , including
video, practising scenarios, myths quiz, and audit handout material.

Staff who support individuals who may be using or miss-using drugs in the place of care.

• Know the most common illegal substances with the potential to be used
and abused
• The drugs pyramid
• Cannabis – a brief overview of the drug and its effects
• Recognising the signs and symptoms of cannabis use
• Know the most common problems associated with cannabis misuse
• Cannabis and medication
• The half life of cannabis
• Know where the law stands on cannabis
• The complex ethics and responsibilities of Support workers
• What to do if? Learners practice interventions with scenarios
• Understand the implications of criminal activity for SU’s and support
workers
• Know where to source your employers policy on drugs
• What to do to reduce the risk of misuse