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From FDAP in association with WIRED
1 November 2004
Caroline Flint – how to get the drugs out of crime
FDAP – new code of practice
Your NEW fortnightly magazine | jobs | news | views Ads.qxd 29/10/04 7:32 pm Page 2
Client’s view (using drawpad) of screen in mid-session Assessor choosing actions to place on caller’s screen
Launching this month From WIRED In association with FDAP and Distance Therapy Ltd VIRTUAL OUTREACH
A uniquely secure online tool to bring together substance misuse professionals and their clients.
Virtual Outreach has internet-based counselling, assessment, and groupwork rooms, with video and voice links, chat and whiteboard that give strict confidentiality and anonymity to your client.
Use Virtual Outreach for:
Assessment and referral Counselling (individual and group) Peer support Aftercare
Virtual Outreach is based on the online therapy tools of DistanceTherapy.com, originally designed to help recovering gambling addicts. It has been specially developed to relate to substance misuse.
To see demos and try out Distance Therapy, visit www.distancetherapy.com
For further information, please contact: Professor David Clark [email protected] 07967-006569 p03 editor/contents.qxd 29/10/04 8:48 pm Page 3
Published by
1 November 2004
On behalf of
FEDERATION OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL PROFESSIONALS Editor’s letter
Welcome to our very first issue of Drink and work situations. But we’re not all about the official Drugs News! side of work. Natalie’s story (page 6) and Dave’s The 21st Century approach to tackling substance misuse Brought to you by the Federation of Drug and ‘day in the life’ (page 12) illustrate what we’re all Alcohol Professionals and Wired, the magazine will about: demonstrating that treatment and support give you a round-up of what’s going on, who’s services can, and most definitely do, make a real saying what, and the latest issues for debate, and lasting difference to people’s lives. Drink and Drugs News in every fortnight. We hope you enjoy this issue – but we’d be the partnership with: You’ll see that we’ve teamed up with the first to recognise that we’re not there yet. It’ll take partner organisations listed on this page to bring time to make sure the magazine’s representative of news and features from very different your work and informative to those working in the perspectives. The other part of the equation, to fields linking yours, whether in a treatment agency, make this magazine a successful communication social services, a needle exchange, prison and tool, is you. The magazine will work best if you let probation services, health service or social housing. us know what’s happening in your workplace and It’s been a hectic few months getting ready for region. Let us know your experiences with clients, our launch and there have been many late nights and practical solutions that will help other readers. compiling the mailing list. If you work with This issue we catch up with Caroline Flint at the someone who should be on it, please let us know Home Office, who shares some interesting thoughts and we’ll add them for the next issue. on drugs and crime. On the professional side, we Last, but not least, please write! Your letters summarise FDAP’s revised code of practice, which will make Drink and Drugs News a lively forum gives some helpful advice on those less than clear for debate.
Editor: European Association for Claire Brown the Treatment of Addiction t: 020 7463 2164 In this issue e: [email protected] Advertising Manager: Ian Ralph t: 020 7463 3581 e: [email protected] News Roundup Interview Reaching the hard to reach – FDAP’s Designer: annual conference | Treatment funding cover story Jez Tucker from the Scottish Executive | Research on How to get the drugs out of crime e: [email protected] IDU infection from the Health Protection Caroline Flint MP talks about the Subscriptions: Agency | Mentor Conference calls for more sustained support option, in breaking the Drugs and e: [email protected] family support 4 drug crime cycle. 8 Alcohol Today Events: e: [email protected] Features Making the code FDAP’s revised code of practice gives Website: How I became... practical advice for every tricky scenario in www.drinkanddrugs.net Natalie describes her route to heroin the substance misuse field. 10 Website maintained by Ash Whitney of Wired-up addiction... and the beginning of her Wales pathway out 6 Diary 12
CJ Wellings Ltd, FDAP and WIRED Published by CJ Wellings Ltd Up close: WIRED A day in the life of... do not accept responsibility for the accuracy of statements made by Printed on environmentally Real world meets web communication at its Dave Watkins, treatment agency community contributors or advertisers. The contents of this magazine are the friendly paper by the best, to help poople tackle substance support worker copyright of CJ Wellings Ltd, but do Manson Group Ltd misuse. David Clark gives the story behind not necessarily represent its views, or those of FDAP, WIRED and its the WIRED initiative. 7 Events 13 partner organisations. Cover pic by Andy Paraskos
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News |national
In brief Parents need more quality attention
Parents need services that are responsive financial reasons, extending their enough ‘resilience factors’ would make NTA treatment focus and ‘give what’s needed, when it’s transition to adulthood. them less likely to turn to substance misuse. A ‘shorter and more focused’ needed,’ Anne Page from the National More than a third of parents in Having strong family ties, being treated treatment plan template is Family and Parenting told this week’s Scotland were worried about their children fairly at school and having a strong spiritual now available from the Mentor UK International conference. becoming involved with substance misuse. belief or connection with a sports team, National Treatment Agency. ‘Parents want to be acknowledged as The survey figure was much lower for were all ways to make teenagers more The documents are designed experts in their own lives,’ said Ms Page. London, at 11 per cent. resilient, she advised. to help partnerships ‘They’re more likely to report satisfaction Research identified age 13 as a The Mentor conference, chaired by (between Crime and Disorder with services if they’ve been listened to. watershed and Ms Page called for more Baroness Susan Greenfield, heard a call Reduction Partnerships and The traditional profile of the family support to plug the gap in services for from Chief Executive Eric Carlin to make Drug Action Teams) develop had changed. Families were smaller, most families with teenagers. sure parents had a strong voice: ‘At a time their strategic planning and mothers worked and the parenting role There was a tendency to ‘stereotype when the media are giving mixed resource allocation. was often filled by a grandparent, teenagers as Kevin and Perry, which messages about alcohol, parents need to Visit www.nta.nhs.uk for full neighbour or family friend. More children teenagers can resent’, she warned. Making be empowered and have a clear idea of guidance. were ‘boomeranging back home’ for sure that young people were equipped with that they need to say.’
Alcohol briefing A briefing paper from Alcohol Hepatitus C cases double Extra funding to help Concern advises on developing a coherent strategy for manag- Cases of hepatitis C have where environmental Scottish addicts ing alcohol problems in comm- doubled among drug users in contamination of heroin A 23 per cent increase in that meant many areas of unities. Aimed at primary care the last three years among seemed likely. funding has been announced Scotland were subjected to a organisations, GPs and prac- those who have recently An outbreak of tetanus by the Scottish Executive to long wait for treatment. tice managers and alcohol started injecting, according to that started with 11 cases in help addicts reach treatment But he criticised the action treatment providers, the the Health Protection Agency. 2003 had continued into this and rehabilitation. plan for insufficient funding strategy document exploits the Research in the HPA’s year, and there had been 14 An investment of £6m and a lack of detail. Treatment flexibility of the new GMS latest annual report highlights reported cases of wound would bring 300 more people a would be opened up to just contract with GPs. Available a growing problem with botulism during 2003. week into treatment and im- 9000 more people over the next from www.alcoholconcern.org injection sites becoming HIV infection, while rare in prove quality and consistency three years – which would infected. Blood poisoning injecting drug users, had of treatment, according to mean still only half of drug cases from methicillin resist- increased in recent years, Justice Minister, Cathy users in Scotland would be New chief for concern ant Staphylococcus aureus and was becoming more Jamieson. likely to get help. Srabani Sen joins Alcohol (MRSA) and severe group A evident in people who had The minister also promised There was a lack of comm- Concern this month, as their streptococcus (GAS), linked begun injecting in the last a stronger partnership itment to helping people new Chief Executive. Ms Sen to intravenous drug use, were three years. between the criminal justice move into the vital stages of comes from Diabetes UK and on the increase. There were Dr Fortune Ncube, who and health services that would education, training and jobs, has a background of comm- 160 cases of GAS reported in compiled the report for the ‘loosen the dealers’ grip on our said Mr Liddell. The SDF had unications and public affairs IDUs in 2003, compared to 10 HPA, blamed shared communities’. already called on the Executive for the social housing sector. per annum in the mid-1990s. equipment and poor hygiene David Liddell, Director of to £20 million a year into this Poor hygiene was still to for the increase in infection. Scottish Drugs Forum, funding, which could save the blame for many outbreaks Visit www.hpa.org.uk for welcomed the proposals as an economy at least £40 a year in Clients stay the course and there were still incidents the full annual report. end to the postcode lottery, crime and social care costs. How to make clients return and stay the course, is dis- cussed in an article ‘Manners Set up to help improve knowledge and Matter’ in Drug and Alcohol understanding between different parts of the Findings. The article, by Mike field, the Uniity Group’s latest conference was Ashton and John Witton, a two-day event on board HMS President in shows how bonding with the Central London. Ten teams of experts ran a client can help services to series of seminars to groups of 15-20 people achieve a positive outcome. at a time – covering topics such as care View at www.lifeline.org.uk coordination, needle exchange, prescribing, residential rehab and structured day care. Deirdre Boyd editor of Addiction Today and leading member of Uniity told us, ‘We were delighted with the quality of the presentations and the response of delegates - and look forward to our next event’.
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News | FDAP conference – no more excuses
Service to ‘difficult’ clients blocked by blame culture
Getting services to hard to reach was no panacea, but treatment groups will be much more effec- options were essential. ‘Most tive if we address the blame users think that services won’t culture that exists, according to be sympathetic to their needs,’ Darren Garrett, development said Mr Garrett. The challenge manager at the Alliance. was ensuring you had the abil- ‘We tend to talk in terms ity and wherewithal to retain of a “difficult client” and users, and this meant being complain that we just can’t flexible to people’s different get them to come to us,’ he circumstances and working said. This led to a cycle of hours. ‘How inclusive are ‘chaotic bureaucracy’, as chemist schemes if they are not clients became ‘hard to reach, open to suit?’ he pointed out. Young people a ‘priority’ hear, attract – and please.’ Building trusting relation- The key to reaching ships was essential to getting Young people are a priority for the areas – ‘but are we getting the out- ‘It was diverse groups was to ensure people involved with drug government, home office minister comes we need to see?’ she asked. right to that you are accepted by the services. There was often anx- Caroline Flint told delegates: ‘It was Mental illness, particularly among reclassify client and work on their terms. iety about working with young right to reclassify cannabis. It’s now Afro Caribbean communities, was cannabis. Notions of shame and people, relating to child protec- important to focus on heroin, cocaine overlooked. ‘How do we make sure It’s now stigma often got in the way of tion issues. Women users with and crack.’ that people who present themselves important people accessing the services children were often punished There was a real difference with depression or illness are being to focus they needed and it was vital to by society, for deviating from between those who try cannabis as reached?’ Ms Flint challenged. on educate communities to their role as carer. It was a rite of passage, and those children Women could be similarly hard to heroin, ensure knee-jerk reactions important to understand the for whom substance misuse becom- reach, particularly is they were involv- cocaine didn’t prosper. prejudices these groups faced, es something to blot out their lives, ed in prostitution, or worried about and ‘One-size fits all services to communicate effectively. she said. ‘We need to bear this in their children being taken off them. crack.’ are not appropriate. If clients Above all, it was vital to mind when producing services and A useful guide to promoting are not given what they need, make sure services were materials.’ services was to think about what they come away with even something users wanted to The National Drug Strategy must currently keeps different groups away bigger habits,’ he warned. There be involved in, he said. meet the needs of the whole comm- and find better ways of commun- unity, Ms Flint emphasised. Having an ication, she suggested. equal opportunities policy did not Partnership working and user necessarily represent engagement. groups were a practical way of No such thing as ‘hard Organisations on the ground must targeting services. ‘We cannot take to reach’ groups ‘change to practical actions that academic tomes and fine words and work,’ she said. say we’ve cracked it,’ she said. ‘There’s no such thing as hard was very poorly understood, Many of the government’s prior- ‘Delivery is in many of your hands – in to reach groups – only hard to said Mr Adebowale. This was ities had been targeted on deprived making it work, making it a reality.’ reach services,’ Victor out of synch with a growing Adebowale, Chief Executive at black population in many Turning Point, told Conference. parts of the country. Responsiveness crucial to next stages of reform Hard to reach was ‘one of Research from Turning things that people invent as Point showed that people from More responsiveness is crucial to reshaping atmosphere more welcoming,’ said Mr Martin. an excuse’, he said. these communities were not services – which is the crucial next stage of Agencies had a duty to make services more Substance misuse masked presenting for treatment. public service reform, according to Peter Martin, accessible – by having flexible opening hours, a range of complex needs. Services tended to focus on Chief Executive of Addaction. smarter commissioning and working with other Often there were mental single problems, instead of ‘Getting it wrong in our field costs lives. We agencies. health problems – the looking at the whole picture of have to become more responsive,’ he said. One-stop shops and mobile needle challenge for substance unemployment, family Flourishing communities were the holy grail – exchanges were ‘reflections of a can-do misuse was to find its place demands and immigration but many people weren’t part of communities, approach’, giving practical help where they were alongside other services. status. One-stop advice should he pointed out. needed. Concentration on services include training and education. ‘The state must make sure the least Hard to reach groups had notoriously low for opiate users often meant ‘The cost of not reaching powerful and most in need get help.’ expectations, as they were used to looking lack of targeted provision for hard to reach groups will come Hard to reach communities required great down, not up, Mr Martin said. It was up to other drug users – including back on us tenfold,’ Mr commitment to conquer the experiences of everyone involved in treatment to provide a black and minority ethnic Adebowale warned. Those stigma of which many users complained. welcoming service, he urged. (BME) communities. Particular with greatest need were likely ‘I have come across outrageous arrogance… ‘We do need to get our own house in order. patterns of drug use (such as to cost the taxpayer more in sometimes it doesn’t take much to make the We have a moral duty of access to all.’ khat) in these communities the long run.
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How I became | an ex-addict
Aged 24 years, Natalie realised her heroin addiction was ruining her life and her family, and decided to do something about it. Drink and Drugs News follows her story.
Natalie started smoking cannabis when she She stopped taking her son to and from was 14. This rapidly got out of hand and she school, stopped going to bed, washing and also started taking acid and valium. She putting on clean clothes. Her son witnessed became pregnant when she was 15 and everything. Although Natalie had reached a managed to stay away from drugs until she stage where she hated her boyfriend, she could was 17, when she started taking ecstasy. not leave because he was her supplier. At 18, she was drinking a lot and taking At one time, her father, boyfriend and most of speed, supplied by her dealer boyfriend. It her friends were using heroin. She couldn’t face gave her plenty of energy and helped her deal a life without it. Finally, her mother gave her an more effectively with being a mother. Her ultimatum; Natalie decided she must quit. boyfriend returned from a spell in prison with She picked up the phone and called a local a heroin habit. Natalie started to use the drug treatment agency which also offers harm two or three days a week, then every day. reduction services
was sitting in my room one day, was using one-and-a-half grams of heroin a day. ‘I was horrified anger and I had to relearn them and what crying, withdrawing, and I’d had I stopped using heroin two months later, three when the they stood for with my counsellor’s help. enough. I just got the phone. When I days before the detox assessment. agency suggest- The agency provided me with telephone “I told the receptionist that I had a During the assessment, I was asked what I ed to me the numbers of people who had been through heroin problem, it was the first time I’d told expected from the detox. I said, ‘What I would possibility of a treatment and were willing to be contacted. anybody that I was a heroin addict. like is just to be normal and have a happy life. detox at a local They helped a lot. I did all sorts of things to I was assessed by a treatment agency Do you think that’s too much to expect?’ I psychiatric try and stop thinking about heroin – ironing, worker three weeks later. He said to me, really thought that it was, but he said ‘no, not hospital. cooking, washing the dishes. I read a lot of the ‘You’ll do this. You’re gonna do it.’ I thought at all’. Four months later, I received a phone I thought detox literature I was given and kept thinking I want he was just saying it to make me feel better. call from the hospital, informing me that they was for ‘down this, I want this, I really want this. I was tired a When I started the pre-treatment program- had a bed for me. I pointed out that I had and outs’, not lot and bored, very bored. I didn’t see anybody. me the following Monday, I was so nervous. been clean for four months. for me. But I I ate a lot. I was irritable and sensitive. During the meeting, I met an ex-heroin user The heroin withdrawal wasn’t too bad thought about it At the beginning it was difficult avoiding who had been clean for sixteen years. She initially, as I was cutting down slowly. I was more and finally my drug using friends – they were phoning talked to me and I was just in awe. I couldn’t also drinking a lot, which may have helped to decided that I me and wanting to come back into my life. believe that she had done the same as me. So mask some of the withdrawal. I was drinking did actually And that was hard because I wanted to be much sounded the same. From that moment, at least three pints of lager ever night. Every need to detox with them but at the same time I didn’t. And I didn’t feel so alone. three or four days, I would binge drink, with from heroin. I was jealous that they were still using and I attended pre-treatment once a week for anything from spirits to lager to wine, to the The agency still doing it and I wasn’t. My ex-boyfriend two months. During this time, I also started point where I would drink myself unconscious. arranged an was very persistent and kept leaving letters. going to Narcotics Anonymous meetings. As I had trouble sleeping and this lasted assessment But I burnt them and did everything I needed my time with the agency and NA progressed, I about two months. Sometimes I couldn’t appointment to do to keep myself ‘safe’. felt a sense of belonging. I felt I had something sleep at night, so had to sleep during the day. for me.’ It was strange trying to re-establish a in common with those around me. I also start- It was all so chaotic. I was disorientated, very ‘normal’ life. I was so used to gouching out ed to understand my addiction and realised shaky inside. I didn’t know whether I was every night in my clothes that I had forgotten that my behaviour was part of my illness. coming or going or what was happening. It the process of going to bed. I was thinking one I was horrified when the agency was like being put back into the world after night, ‘well, what do you do? You must put suggested to me the possibility of a detox at being locked up for a couple of years. I could your nighty on’. It’d been so long since I’d done a local psychiatric hospital. I thought detox deal with the physical withdrawal, but the that. I put my nighty on and I got in bed and I was for ‘down and outs’, not for me. But I mental was difficult. thought, ‘well, what do you do now? Right, thought about it more and finally decided My family supported me and took me to people set their alarms don’t they?’ So I did that I did actually need to detox from heroin. places whenever I said I couldn’t handle that. The feeling was so strange. It was also a The agency arranged an assessment things. I had so many things going on, I was strange feeling when I stopped using heroin appointment for me. scared, worried about messing up again. I and became aware again of simple things, like Meanwhile, my father helped establish a had these feelings rushing around, but I the taste of food, birds singing and springtime. reduction program, weighing out a certain didn’t know what they were because I had amount of heroin each day for me, each portion suppressed them for so long. I couldn’t Next issue: Natalie wins her life back, with progressively decreasing in size. At the start I distinguish between the feelings of hurt and the agency’s help.
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Up close | WIRED
World of
WIRED is becoming valued as a unique grassroots initiative to tackle drug and alcohol misuse that merges real world activities with a high profile web based communication system. We asked its creator, Professor David Clark, how WIRED developed.
The concept of WIRED was developed five included our personal stories, project profiles ‘WIRED has to marketing for their international drug years ago as a way of empowering people to and original articles, as well as the results of be involved in policy programme. tackle substance misuse. I felt that the our research. Our personal stories provide both virtual and Who are WIRED? Well, we’re a small internet was not being used innovatively to important insights into the lives of people real world group of people from around the country help the field. Its potential for supporting an who have experienced and recovered from activities, with different backgrounds, most of whom integrated resource of information, support, substance misuse problems. fostering a are carrying out this work in their spare time. education, training and research, as well as The research we undertake is focused on strong grass To date, we have survived with very little bringing together expertise from both within issues relevant to practice. I am excited that roots initiative funding. It’s been tough at times combining and outside the field, needed to be realised. we are able to recruit top students from our which has long- my normal day-time job (university I also knew that WIRED has to be involved university department who go on to love this term continuity professor) with my role as director of Wired. in both virtual and real world activities, field and want to contribute more. Our and stability... But it has been exciting and very rewarding fostering a strong grass roots initiative which ongoing projects include work on recovery There are plenty working in this field. We’ve had too many has long-term continuity and stability. My from addiction and the role of treatment of people who ‘balls in the air’, but sometimes you have to vision was big – very naively so – but then processes; the impact of substance misuse want to become over-commit in order to keep a unique what we are tackling is enormous. As far as I on the family; prejudice towards substance involved in initiative going until it attracts funding. My could see there are plenty of people who misusers, and drug overdose. tackling colleagues and I have loved working with want to become involved in tackling One of the most exciting developments substance clients, families, practitioners and many substance misuse problems but don’t know has been our link with the Federation of Drug misuse others. We thank them all. how to get involved. They need something to and Alcohol Professionals (FDAP). We have problems but An important aim of the past five years which they can belong and contribute. jointly launched Drink and Drugs News don’t know how has been to develop WIRED as a high quality, Our first challenge was learning about the magazine (with the publishers, CJ Wellings) to get involved. innovative organisation that is dedicated to field and gaining an identity. We initially eval- and are working to bring a new secure and They need best practice. In the coming years, we need a uated and supported all projects funded by the confidential communication tool (Virtual something to significant financial investment to take the Drug and Alcohol Treatment Fund, the largest Outreach) into the field which can be used which they can initiative forward in the way that it deserves. treatment fund in Wales. This two year project for assessment, counselling, aftercare and belong and allowed us to work with a large number of various other forms of support. This unique contribute.’ David Clark is a professor in psychology at high quality projects on the ground. It also tool has been developed by Distance Therapy the University of Wales Swansea. He spent emphasised to us the divide that can exist and it will be looked at in more detail in the 25 years as a neuroscientist working with the between community services and central next issue of Drink and Drugs News. neurotransmitter dopamine, having trained government, and the need for a strong Ultimately, we want Virtual Outreach to link with the Nobel Laureate Professor Arvid bottom-up approach which could be sustained. into the web communities we are developing Carlsson, before changing career. Around this time, we also launched Daily – the first will be for parents and carers of Dose. This website is now the world’s leading people with a substance misuse problem. WIRED comprises a charitable company, news portal on substance misuse, with over In the past week, Wired has launched a Wired International Ltd and Wired 2,500 daily subscribers and many other site consultancy service to help organisations Consultancy. If you would like further visitors. Daily Dose is top of 2.7 million and communities tackle substance misuse, information, you can contact listings on Google. We later launched and linked up with the Beckley Foundation [email protected] or visit substancemisuse.net, the content of which to provide them internet support and www.wiredinitiative.com.
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Caroline Flint, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Home Office, talks to Drink and Drugs News about the government's thinking behind the drugs and alcohol strategies, both of which fall within her ministerial brief. Photo by Andy Paraskos How to get the drugs out of crime
CAROLINE FLINT’S EXPERIENCE AS MP together expertise from local authorities, health for Don Valley (centred on the town of services, police, probation services and the Doncaster) leads her to the view that ‘a person voluntary sector. addicted to class A drugs is a mini crime wave’. The key word seems to be ‘engagement’ – She argues that stealing and begging have from all of the agencies, and from the client become inextricably linked with feeding a drug themselves. habit, and points to the high positive drugs test ‘If they have a problem that is making them rate among those arrested for acquisitive crime. commit crime, we engage with them and get A recent study of the link between drugs and them into treatment,’ explains Flint. ‘Having gun crime, 66% of people arrested in her done that, treatment and support to stay off constituency for gun-related offences tested drugs is ongoing.’ positive for drugs (the second highest figure in Crucially, in Flint's view, this support extends the country, just behind Hackney). beyond the end of any prison sentence – It was primarily to try to break the cycle convincing proof she believes of the between drugs and crime that led the Labour commitment to keeping clients out of the drug administration to develop the national drugs crime loop for good. strategy, first published in 1998 and updated in Having worked closely with many people 2002 – and which has fuelled a significant within and around the substance misuse field, increase in funding for both treatment and Flint is keen to advocate the benefits of joint prevention initiatives. working with the rest of the social care field, to Central to the government's focus on drugs get the best, most integrated plan of care for and alcohol abuse is their link to offending – each individual. and it is their belief that tackling drugs and ‘It’s important to develop these links because alcohol abuse will help to bring down crime individuals don’t operate in silos,’ she says. that is at the core of both national strategies. ‘What’s going on outside treatment support can Flint points out that effective treatment for affect the success of treatment. If somebody is people with drug problems requires not only involved in a substitute subscribing programme, more and better services – the initial focus of the but they’ve got nowhere to live, or something government's approach to treatment – but also else is going wrong in their personal lives, if on a more joined up approach between agencies, there are children involved in the family… these a key element of the new Drug Intervention are all things that can affect the success of any Programme (DIP) initiative (the renamed drug treatment.’ Criminal Justice Intervention Programme). Working across agencies, to ‘get as much As well as crime and anti-social behaviour, common understanding about all the different Flint lists education, family policy and welfare issues that affect successful outcomes’ can be a to work, among her policy interests. It’s a back- major step towards helping someone get over ground that she believes has equipped her well and deal with their drug addiction, she believes. to understand ‘the chaotic lifestyles involving ‘[We need to] identify how we can share crime… lack of education, lack of employment, information in the best interests of the lack of housing, that these individuals face’. individual concerned.’ Flint launched a DIP in her own constituency Alongside all of the discussion about well- in September. She is a great believer in joined- meaning initiatives, Caroline Flint realises that up thinking and the programme brought for any strategy to be considered effective, the
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Cover story | Caroline Flint Interview
service users themselves must be impressed – Secretary. ‘We are looking at applying the ‘What’s going on outside treatment or at the very least, interested that what’s on intervention programme that we’re currently support can affect the success of offer might work for them. doing for illegal drugs, and seeing if the There’s an element of ‘one last chance’, programme could be adapted for people for treatment. If somebody is involved which she’s determined to prove. whom alcohol abuse and substance misuse is a in a substitute subscribing program- ‘I’ve met drug users – and former drug users real problem and a factor behind their crime.’ me, but they’ve got nowhere to live, for that matter – who feel that they are passed And there is the audit of existing alcohol or something else is going wrong in from pillar to post. It’s not that there’s been a treatment services, results of which will be their personal lives, if there are shortage of agencies and intervention in their available early next year, which will be used to children involved in the family… lives… police, social services, treatment help ensure that there are sufficient services providers… it’s just been very fragmented. available to meet the needs of people with these are all things that can affect ‘They can be passed from one agency to alcohol problems. the success of any drug treatment.’ another, information isn’t shared, issues that And as well as treatment, Flint points out are important aren’t attended to, there’s no that the alcohol strategy includes working with follow-up. Is there any wonder that, at the end 'the licensing trade, local authorities and others, of the day, there isn’t any successful conclusion to try and tackle to problems that excessive to treatment?’ drinking causes within our communities'. ‘People working in agencies, working with It’s early days for the DIP, both in her own Flint also sees sense in encouraging the Drug people with drug problems want to know that constituency and in the country as a whole, but Action Teams (DATs) to develop as Drug and there is a thought-out strategy and that there Flint is convinced it’s working. Alcohol Action Teams (DAATs). are real resources to sustain not only treatment, ‘We’re seeing early indications that crime ‘I think there is common ground on what the but the support services that are needed in our levels are going down in intervention areas,’ she issues are – how drugs, legal and illegal, can communities. And that’s really important.’ says. ‘Some of these people might have been in sometimes take over your life,’ she says. While seeing some merit in random drug treatment before, but it hasn’t been joined up… So what does the minister think of the testing in schools, Flint is also cautious about there haven’t been the wraparound support Shadow Home Secretary, David Davis’s recently taking this too far. services to sustain them,’ she says. declared ‘hard line on drugs’ and his pledged ‘It’s down to schools to decide,’ she says, Feedback from those in treatment has ten-fold increase in residential rehabilitation suggesting that if the school thinks there is a convinced the minister that efforts are places, to justify the choice of rehabilitation or serious problem they need to address, they worthwhile. ‘I’ve met people in Doncaster and the criminal justice system? should look at a range of options. elsewhere, who have been through this process, ‘Well, there are a couple of things I’d say,’ she While acknowledging that ‘we need to know and they say it’s the best thing that’s ever answers in measured tones. where there are children who may be misusing happened to them.’ ‘I think you have to have a thought-out drugs, and where there are young people who A positive reaction from parents whose strategy on links between drugs and crime. We are actively dealing in drugs’, she resists a diktat: children had been involved in drugs was further need to have an approach to strategy that ‘I don’t think that I as a minister can say you encouragement: ‘It was good to hear from them understands the issues behind what causes should do this… I think each school has to decide. that this scheme is making a difference.’ people to commit those crimes.’ Flint is anxious too that schools know in From its early beginnings, the DIP has now The present government, she points out, ‘are advance what they plan to do with the results reached phase two. Still plotted on the basis of putting record amounts of money into funding of such tests, and what the outcome will be for levels of drug-related crime, it now covers 66 not only the treatment side, but also the criminal the child involved. areas of the country. If it is still found to be justice side, making these programmes work.’ ‘If they do find someone has a substance effective – ‘and it does seem to be working and Flint refers again to the DIP as evidence of misuse problem, how are schools going to having an effect, in terms of getting people into breaking the links between drugs and crime, tackle it? What is the outcome going to be of treatment and bringing crime levels down’, ‘stopping the revolving doors for people who anything they might discover as a result of according to Flint – the home office and partner have been on drugs’. test? That’s very important.’ agencies will be looking to expand the scheme ‘It’s very easy to say “we’re going to set up x Flint’s approach is consultative: she told the elsewhere. number of residential rehabilitation places” and FDAP conference last month, that to make And ‘we are also working upstream, on I would like to see treatment places grow,’ she progress the government needed to have people who bring drugs into distribution,’ she says. ‘But at the same time, while residential feedback on whether new resources are making adds. But while it is crime which is the treatment is very important for some people, a difference. Whatever the Intervention fundamental driver behind the drugs strategy, and essential for some people, at the end of the Programme is named, there will certainly be Flint also acknowledges the importance of day, people don’t spend the whole of their life plenty of people involved who are willing to wider health and social benefits of tackling in residential treatment. They have to come out, comment. DD drug use and of treating drug users as people, have to come back into the community, and in spite of her comment about 'mini crime unless you have the support services in the waves'. community, residential treatment won’t have When asked if there is sufficient emphasis the success that we want it to have. I think Coming soon in Drink and Drugs News: on treatment for people with alcohol problems, that’s an important area that is missing from David Davis on plans for Tory spending Flint is quick to draw attention to the the Shadow Home Secretary’s analysis of what on drink and drugs issues. government’s Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy, is a very complex and difficult area.’ launched in March this year – though again the Flint obviously feels that her colleague is What’s your view? main focus here is on crime. missing the point of joined-up thinking and the Write to the editor, or Two pilot programmes are in the pipeline, holistic approach, and she warns against email [email protected] recently given the green light by the Home alienating those involved.
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Feature | FDAP code of practice
The Federation of Drug and Alcohol Professionals (FDAP) have just launched a new code of practice for workers in the substance misuse field. What is the thinking behind it and what will it mean for practitioners and clients? Making the code
‘FDAP IS ALL ABOUT HELPING Yet there is no blanket ban here on people to improve standards of practice across the with recent or even on-going drug or alcohol field, and we see our new code of practice as related problems from working in the field. one key element of this’, says FDAP Chief ‘It is true that an ongoing drug or alcohol Executive, Simon Shepherd. The code is problem is likely to compromise a person's intended to give clear guidance on issues of ability to practice, and that working in this field professional and ethical practice, and ‘although if you have had recent difficulties in this area we are only able to enforce it with our members may also be potentially problematic, not only (through our complaints and disciplinary for the client but also for the practitioner procedures), we hope that it will also help to themselves', says Shepherd. ‘Yet we need to inform practice across the field,’ he says. acknowledge that former users often have a The code is based on core values of particular contribution to make’. He believes fairness, dignity and respect – between that the same can also often be true for people practitioners and their clients, and between on an ongoing methadone script for example, practitioners and their colleagues – and was pointing to the excellent work of service-user drawn up in consultation with a wide range of advocates working for The Alliance. practitioners and other agencies (including The ‘There are two fundamental questions here,’ Alliance, EATA, DrugScope, Alcohol Concern according to Shepherd: ‘Can a person provide and the NTA). a good service to the client, and is it safe for According to Shepherd, one of the key their own wellbeing for them to do so? If the aspects of the code, and the one which answer to both questions is yes, there’s no generating the greatest amount of debate during reason why they shouldn’t do the job.’ the consultation process, is the issue of ‘fitness The line taken in the code is that workers to practise’ for people who have, or have had, have a professional responsibility to problems with drugs or alcohol themselves. acknowledge where their fitness to practise ‘Traditionally there has been a view that might be impaired (whether by a drug of people with on-going drug or alcohol problems alcohol problem or some other issue); to not should not work in this field. And many take practise where this is the case; and to seek the line that they should not do so for at least professional guidance from a senior colleague two years of having had a problem (the so- where they are in any doubt about the matter. Simon Shepherd: ‘We need to acknowledge called ‘two-year rule’). While some Another potentially contentious area is that that former users often have a particular practitioners felt that this made sense, many of relationships between practitioners and more felt it unfair and short-sighted, and we clients. Here, the code acknowledges that contribution to make... Can a person provide a ultimately concluded that a more flexible ‘practitioners must recognise that they hold good service to the client, and is it safe for approach was needed.’ positions of responsibility and that their clients their own wellbeing for them to do so? If the The code makes it clear that practitioners and those seeking their help will often be in a ‘...should never practise while their position of vulnerability’ and makes it clear that answer to both questions is yes, there’s no competence is impaired by the use of any they must not abuse their position in any way, reason why they shouldn’t do the job.’ mood altering substance’. including by ‘[engaging] in sexual relations, or
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any other type of sexualised behaviour’, with their clients. But while acknowledging that considerable FDAP code of practice caution should be exercised before entering Key points into any form of relationship (personal or business) with former clients, here too FDAP has opted against blanket bans – recognising General If you believe a client poses that they are simply unworkable – pointing out Act responsibly and professionally serious risk of harm to themselves that workers should ‘exercise considerable at all times. or others, consider disclosing caution and consult their supervisor before Respect the client’s rights and information about the client entering into... relationships with former without their consent, but seek clients’ and making it clear that they ‘should interests – being responsive to expect to be held professionally accountable if issues of diversity. consent first and consult a the relationship becomes detrimental to the Acknowledge the difference supervisor. client or to the standing of the profession’. between fact and opinion. Don’t publish information about And there is also a strong emphasis on the Cover your work by insurance. clients without written agreement. need for client consent to any work and on Keep client records secure and respect for the individual – ‘a particularly Service provision comply with the Data Protection important consideration in a context of Base services on assessment of Act. increasingly voluble calls for compulsory individual need. interventions and the tendency among Consult with the client to draw up Client relations politicians and commentators to forget about a plan of action. Recognise that you hold a the people behind the problem’. responsible position and your As well as placing ultimate responsibility for Provide a service only when their practice on workers themselves, the code appropriate. client is vulnerable. consistently emphasises the importance of Seek alternative services where Don’t abuse clients’ trust for any regular supervision and the need to consult with your own is not appropriate. sexual, emotional or financial a supervisor whenever they are in any doubt advantage. about how to handle a particular situation. Professional competence Exercise caution and seek a Much of this has come through the Keep knowledge and skills up to supervisor’s advice before consultation process, according to Shepherd: date. entering into a personal or ‘The advice we got through consultation is Present qualifications and business relationship with a that practitioners shouldn’t keep things to experience accurately. former client. themselves. They should be willing to be Don’t practise if your ability is Don’t carry out an assessment guided by a supervisor'. or intervention with, or provide ‘We also need to protect and support compromised by any ongoing practitioners, who are working in often problem related to alcohol, drugs, supervision to, anyone with challenging and difficult situations – and the stress, or illness. whom you have an existing guidance and support that supervisors can Never work when your fitness to relationship. give is important here too.’ practise is impaired by a mood- If you come into contact with an As Shepherd said at FDAP's annual altering substance. existing or former client through a conference last month, ‘Ultimately our code of self-help group, handle contact practice is about protecting both clients and Consent carefully and seek a supervisor’s practitioners – and is a key component in our Gain informed consent before advice. work to drive up standards in the field, along providing any service. with our work on improving the dissemination Take into account that some Professional supervision of information to the field and on professional Have regular professional certification.’ people’s capacity to give consent Introducing the CoP alongside Drink and may be diminished. supervision to guide and support Drugs News, at FDAP’s conference last Don’t exaggerate the effectiveness your practice. month, Shepherd was swift to emphasise the of services you can provide. If you have any doubts on connection between driving up standards and If you impose conditions on handling a situation seek improving the flow of information to members. continuation of your service, get guidance from your supervisor. ‘The magazine will enhance what we’re approval of a supervisor. doing on improving standards of practice – it’s Recognise the client’s right to Professional standards all about getting people the information they withdraw consent at any time. Do not condone, support, conceal need to do their jobs.’ And in the next issue of or enable unethical conduct of Drink and Drugs News we will look at another Confidentiality colleagues. strand of their work, their new DANOS-based Explain to your clients their rights Drug and Alcohol Professional Certification. Except under exceptional circumst- Visit drinkanddrugs.net for a full version of ances, don’t disclose any informa- in making a complaint about FDAP’s revised Code of Practice for Drug and tion without your client’s consent. yourself or a colleague. Alcohol Professionals. DD
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Diary | community support worker
her on my house calls and then to sort out some accommodation for the night. She A day in the life of... obliges. It’s good to take her mind off it. That’s a lot of the job, dealing with clients’ crises. How can we expect people to concentrate on recovery when they’re on the streets or burdened with worry?
Dave Watkins 13.30 We visit Mike, James and Sylvia and take them to the allotments. I love the treatment agency DOMINO projects, the allotments, cookery, guitar lessons. Clients in all stages of recovery can meet, talk and have a laugh – community usually at my expense! This plays a huge part in motivating them to enter treatment, particularly when they’re in the stage of ‘I support worker know I’m looking for something but what am I looking for?’ They meet others in similar positions, make friends and encourage each other – recovery is infectious and a huge part of that is belonging. That’s one of the most important parts of my job, just being here to talk to. I mingle until I reach Amy. A regular. ‘Not right’ lately. I’m worried. She doesn’t want to talk. I don’t push her but tell her to keep reminding herself why she started coming to WGCADA in the first place Tuesday 09.00 I walk in. As usual I hear the Gareth. First port of call when I meet a ‘I mockingly – she asked for help for a reason. It’s often shrieks of laughter from clients winding up client… make sure they’re warm, fed and shake my that reason that keeps people coming back staff members, waves and smiles, the have a place to go. Clients are usually very finger at her, and going to treatment. Sometimes this is timidity of a newcomer: eyes wide, panic chaotic so we need to put some structure sighing inside all we can do, frustrating as it is, but I have concealed by the drinking of an offered into their lives and make sure they receive as I wonder comfort in the little seed – plant a seed now coffee, but hanging in there, proof of the the benefits they are entitled to before what there is and it may germinate straight away or it may power of our ‘open door’. Then there’s Sian: getting them into treatment. It’s like a game left to try with take months or even years. But it can and sheepishly trying to get my attention, unsure of chess and the longer you do it the better her. I know this will germinate. We bundle into the car and I of my reaction to see her back again, you get. Next form-filling, the bane of my much though – drop them home, spirits high. numerous detoxes and rehab attempts later. existence: DSS, DLA. Another phone call: never give up, I mockingly shake my finger at her, sighing the gas board. Poor Julie, £2k gas bill always go the 16.00 Phone calls looking for a place for inside as I wonder what there is left to try landed on her doormat. Enough to give extra mile, or Joanne, best I can do is a B&B for the night with her. I know this much though – never anyone a panic, especially as she was on a the extra so I wait and settle her in. give up, always go the extra mile, or the meter! All sorted. hundred miles extra hundred miles as it sometimes turns as it sometimes 17.00 Rush to Cefn Coed, good to see out! People do get better. We have a quick 11.30 A call from my mate Larry in the cells, turns out! Jenny more coherent after her psychosis. chat and she tells me her woes of the last David was picked up again last night. Drunk People do get Detox going well, glad to see me, ready for few weeks. She’s only been using a little bit, and disorderly again. Out the door. In the better.’ treatment soon. just to get her through this difficult time… car. Down to the cells. He’s sorry, not sure she’s going to give treatment a real go this what happened, won’t happen again. Talk to 18.30 Back to the office, paperwork time. time… she means it. Let’s wait and see I Larry, another court appearance for both of Another caffeine fix. Exhaustion! I start think, almost chuckling at this latest tale of us, but not today – I can take him home. The thinking about the day. Reliably chaotic, excuses (she can be inventive I’ll give her importance of networking. We’re lucky here, another to follow no doubt! What keeps me that!). But it’s not funny, people die and we we all seem to sing off the same hymn here? Madness! It’s a privilege really, people have to remember that. It’s so important to sheet – agency workers, social services, enter your life and talk to you, you make be understanding, the illness is so devious probation, courts, hospitals, mental brilliant friends both staff and clients, and and complicated she really believes she hospitals, doctors, DSS, wet houses, dry it’s wonderful being part of a good can’t live without that hit – or drink, tab, houses, local health board. If your approach package… I’m only a small cog, but one of rock, whatever, it’s got her in its grip. is right, people generally want to help not many small cogs that turn the big machine, hinder you. It’s so important to know that and it does work. 10.00 I moan to the others as I see my in- you’ve got back-up. tray bulging. Funny really. When it’s empty I Dave Watkins works at the West Glamorgan worry what I’ve done wrong! Am I doing my 13.00 Quickly drop into the centre before Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse job well enough? Grab a quick caffeine fix starting house calls. Joanne’s there, been (WGCADA), an abstinence based (12-step) and up to the office. Phone calls: detox for kicked out of home and three months into treatment centre in South Wales, that also John, rehab for Mary, Housing Options for recovery is looking vulnerable. I offer to take offers harm reduction services.
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Events | up and coming
2 November munities and deaths in custody. addiction can be addressed, challenges, alcohol – the A new agenda: moving forward Greater Manchester Ambulance particularly issues arising from forgotten addiction, and societal in the post-alcohol strategy Service NHS Trust, Manchester. differences between health impact and accountability. Venice, Weblinks Annual conference includes up- Contact Salman Desai. service and voluntary Italy. International Council on dates and debate on the alcohol t: 01204 492419, organisations. London. Alcohol and Addiction (ICAA). Alcohol Concern is the national strategy. Speakers from DoH and e: [email protected]. w: www.conferencesandtraining.com t: 0043 2630 33230, voluntary agency on alcohol NTA. Alcohol Concern, London. Reduced rate for FDAP members e: [email protected]. misuse. It works to reduce the t: 020 7928 7377, 18-19 November w: www.icaa.ch. incidence and costs of alcohol- e: [email protected] SSA annual symposium 7-8 December related harm and to increase the ‘Examining legitimacy, NTA national conference 1-3 November range and quality of services 8-11 November competence and effectiveness in The NTA’s second major 6th European conference of available to people with alcohol- Putting the drugs business out primary and secondary care’. conference will acknowledge European Opiate Addiction related problems. of business Society lecture will be by significant improvements in drug Treatment Association www.alcoholconcern.org.uk Three-day conference to examine Professor Griffith Edwards. treatment in England, identify Three-day conference sharing current strategies, structures and Society for Study of Addiction, challenges we still face, and set views from European countries The Alcohol Information practices to tackle the drugs York. Contact Christine Weatherill. out the vision for the remaining (East and West) and the rest of Scotland website provides a business, including international t: 0113 295 1330, three years of the current drugs the world, share ideas with wide range of information on dimensions. ACPO, Manchester. e: [email protected]. strategy. NTA, London. colleagues from many different alcohol for Scotland. This includes t: 0800 542 9585, w: www.nta.nhs.uk countries and enjoy European statistics, research, publications, w: www.acpodrugs2004.co.uk. 24 November culture. EUROPAD, Paris. key policy documents and practice guidelines as well as links Tackling alcohol-related crime – e: [email protected], to useful websites. www.alcoholin 9 November an after-dark problem w: www.europad.org. 2005 formation.isdscotland.org Symposium on addiction One-day conference to discuss Includes Dr Adrian Bonner on how different agencies can work 28 January 11-14 November Danos.info provides information, the role that diet plays in together to tackle alcohol-related Release drugs university IV 5th Annual national harm advice and guidance on using the treatment and rehabilitation. violence and anti-social behaviour ‘Drugs – the politics, philosophy reduction conference Drugs and Alcohol National Salvation Army, Arbroath. in the night-time economy. Capita, and economics’ – the fourth Working under fire: drug user Occupational Standards (DANOS) Contact Major James McCluskey. London. Contact Jasmin Matharu. Release Drugs University will health and justice 2004. to improve services to substance t: 01307 469574, t: 0207 808 5292, examine the theme of drugs, the Housing, medical care, impact of users. www.danos.info e: james.mccluskey@salva e: [email protected]. law and human rights. Speakers drug use of families, needle tionarmy.org. w: www.capita-ld.co.uk include: Professor Craig exchange programs and new Drugsalcohol.info is the first Reinarman, University of developments in the political and regional drugs and alcohol website 10 November 24 November California; Shami Chakrabarti, criminal justice arenas. Harm for professionals in Northern Alcohol in 2004: why are we HIV and AIDS treatment Director, Liberty UK; Dr Peter Reduction Coalition. New Ireland. pulling in different directions? One-day event with presenters Cohen, University of Amsterdam. Orleans, USA. Contact Paul www.drugsalcohol.info The government approach to its from both the HIV and drug and Release, London. Santiago - The Drug Misuse Information strategy, debate on whether alcohol sectors. Keynote w: www.release.org.uk t: +1 212 213 6376 x 15, Scotland site provides infor- these measures will work, which presentation by Dr Mike Youle, e: [email protected]. mation, statistics and research on key agencies will need to respond Director of HIV Clinical Research 21-22 February w: www.harmreduction.org drugs misuse in Scotland. Target and how they will need to work at the Royal Free Centre for HIV National drug treatment users are policy makers, together. Royal Institute of Public Medicine. Other speakers include conference 25-27 November professionals, researchers, Health, London. Annette Dale-Perera (NTA), Two-day annual event. Exchange 7th international symposium on employers and the wider e: [email protected], Kathryn Leafe (Cranstoun) and Dr Conference in association with substance abuse treatment community. www.drugmis t: 020 7580 2731. Peter Miller (National Addiction The Alliance. London. w: ‘21st century drug free treat- use.isdscotland.org Centre). EATA, London. www.exchangesupplies.org or ment? Between evidence and 15 November t: 020 7922 8753, contact Monique at Exchange belief’. Looking at whether DrugScope is the UK’s leading Rural drug & alcohol prevention e: [email protected]. Conferences. treatment is more or less independent centre of expertise on – a gap in the national strategy t: 020 7928 9152, effective than in the early 1970s, drugs. It aims to inform policy deve- National conference on the need 26 November e: [email protected]. and if not, what we should do. lopment and reduce drug-related for a robust approach to Binge drinking: problems and Centre for Alcohol and Drug risk. www.drugscope.org.uk substance misuse in rural and responses 19-21 May Research. Denmark. semi-rural areas. Keynote Topics cover binge drinking and UK/European Symposium on e: [email protected]. The National Treatment Agency (NTA) is a special health speaker: Minister for Rural school students, adults, econom- Addictive Disorders authority, created by the Affairs, RT Hon Alun Michael MP. ics, medical effects, Manchester Speakers will include Prof Carlo Government in 2001 to improve Mentor UK, Coventry. City Centre Safe Project, reducing DiClemente, author or world- the availability, capacity and e: [email protected]. trouble in bars, a Canadian renowned research on the effectiveness of treatment for drug approach and harm minimisation. impact of treatment for misuse in England. 17 November Addictions Forum, Bristol. Contact alcoholism. www.nta.nhs.uk Drug-related deaths: exploring Addictions Forum at University of Contact Deirdre Boyd. issues & finding solutions the West of England. e: [email protected] Please email details Tackling Drugs is the cross- One-day conference on reducing t: 0117 328 8800. government drug strategy website drug-related deaths. Themes Overseas events of your events to: for drug professionals and others include: setting up confidential 3 December [email protected] interested in the strategy. Content inquiry panels, working with Dual diagnosis: mental health & 31 October–5 November includes publications, events, Drug injecting drug users to reduce risk drug addiction & alcoholism 47th annual conference of ICAA Action Team Directory, public of death, ambulance protocol/ A detailed look at how the gap ‘Visions for the Future’ will focus drugs campaign resources, press policy for responding to over- between mental health problems on responsive policy making, the releases and the national drug doses, needs of BME com- and alcoholism and drug media, treatment victories and strategy. www.drugs.gov.uk
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Classified | education and learning
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Classified | education and learning
“Addaction, the national drug and alcohol treatment charity, would like to congratulate Drink and Drug News on their publication of their first edition, and also congratulates David Clark of Daily Dose and the Federation of Drug and Alcohol Professionals (FDAP) for all their work in supporting its development and launch.”
www.addaction.org.uk
Bear with us………..
Some of you are probably wondering why you have received multiple copies of Drink and Drugs News, while others are busy peering over a colleague’s shoulder wondering why they have been missed out! Please help us to rectify this:
If you have received multiple copies please pass your spare magazines on and send an email entitled UNSUBSCRIBE to [email protected]. Please put the name and full address of the extra copies and we will amend our circulation.
The magazine is FREE for all practitioners working in substance misuse and related fields. If you haven’t received a copy and would like to, please email entitled SUBSCRIBE to [email protected] with the name and address that you would like the magazine sent to and you will be added to the circulation in time for the second issue. (A PDF of the launch issue is available on www.drinkanddrugs.net)
We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.
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Classified | recruitment
KCA (UK) is an expanding and vibrant organisation providing HAGAM a wide range of high quality and innovative specialist services. Founded in 1975 and currently employing over (Hillingdon Action Group for 200 paid and unpaid staff, it has an annual income of £5 Addiction Management) million and is becoming established as one of the leading service providers in the South East Region. Our aim is to Old Bank House, deliver individually tailored care packages which are effective 64 High Street, Uxbridge, in reducing drug and alcohol related harm and are based on Middlesex, UB8 1JP cost-efficient structures, processes and delivery mechanisms.
Consultant Counselling Supervisor Required OPERATIONS DIRECTOR (ADULT COMMUNITY SERVICES) £36,147 - £45,198 (SCP 48- 59) Based in Kent We currently have a vacancy for an experienced Essential Car User Allowance, Pension Scheme & Relocation Costs consultant supervisor to provide client work supervision This pivotal change-management role encompasses both leading KCA’s Adult Drug and for our senior counselling staff. The time commitment Alcohol Services operations and influencing the overall direction of the organization as will be around 4.5 hours per month part of the Senior Management Team. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will:
Please contact Kate Henderson, Director Ensure the efficient management of Adult Services and lead a team of skilled and experienced managers. on 01895 207788 for further details and Contribute to the development of strategic and business plans to complement the an application pack. national drug & alcohol agenda and the continued growth of the organization. Oversee service delivery to meet contractual targets and recognized quality assurance standards, such as QuADS. Ensure the efficient deployment and professional development of operational staff to meet changing needs. In tandem with the Director of Development, set-up new teams and services as contracts are won. Ensure the highest possible standards of care for service users You are guaranteed a wide array of professional challenges and opportunities and will be supported by a cohesive and committed group of senior managers with a wealth of Half of all violent crime is alcohol related experience. 30% of men and 15% of women on Wirral To meet the demands of this post, you should have considerable operational management experience. You may already work in the drug and alcohol sector, but equally your drink above recommended levels background may be in related sectors, such as social welfare, education or the NHS. Should you wish to discuss this role informally, please contact Peter Gallagher, Director of This is your opportunity to make a difference! Human Resources & Estates, or Anton Derkacz, Chief Executive, on 01795 590635. For application forms contact: KCA (UK), Dan House, 44 East Street, Faversham, Kent ME13 8AT. ALCOHOL STRATEGY PROJECT MANAGER Telephone 01795 590635, Fax 01795 539351, Fixed term contract (1 year in first instance) Email [email protected], www.kca.org.uk. Please quote Ref: 253. Secondment Opportunity Closing date: 10th November 2004 Interview date: 26th November 2004 Wirral Drug & Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) is seeking to appoint a self-motivated enthusiastic professional to manage the KCA is committed to the principles of equality of opportunity for all development and implementation of National and local alcohol Charity No: 292824 strategy targets focussing initially on Neighbourhood Renewal wards. The post holder will work and be managed within the highly successful Wirral Drug and Alcohol Action Team.
Offered as fixed term post or secondment in the first instance we expect the post to be funded for a further 3 years from the end Adfam, the leading national organisation for families affected by of this initial contract. drugs and alcohol, is seeking to recruit a:
Applicants must have experience of working within a health and PA TO CHIEF EXECUTIVE AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM social care, business, community or criminal justice services for £21,500 - £23,000 p.a. pro rata (incl. LW) + 5% contributory a minimum of three years and demonstrate knowledge of alcohol related harm and service development. pension scheme for a 25 hour week Based in Southwark, this post requires an enthusiastic team player The hours of work are: 37 per week. with a ‘can do’ approach, excellent communication and IT skills, plus experience of office administration and minute taking. The Salary subject to job evaluation: circa £30,553k person appointed will be expected to service meetings, organise For further information/informal discussion please contact: Closing dates for receipt of all diaries and liaise with the Board of Trustees and other key Andy Mills (0151-651 0011 x 255) or applications is 5pm on 15TH stakeholders. Mindy Rutherford (0151-651 3884). November 2004 and interviews will be held on 18th & 19th ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT The Primary Care Trust recognises diversity and is committed to November 2004. £20,000 - £21,500 p.a. (incl. LW) + 5% contributory pension Equal Opportunities in employment. For an application pack phone: scheme for a 35 hour week Application pack and job description 0207 928 8898 or Based in Southwark, this post requires an enthusiastic team player can be obtained from the Human email [email protected]. with a ‘can do’ approach, excellent communication and IT skills, Resources Department, Birkenhead Packs can also be downloaded plus experience of office administration. The person appointed will and Wallasey PCT, St Catherine’s from our website on work with the Finance and Administration Manager, and will be www.adfam.org.uk. Hospital, Church Road, Tranmere expected to work across all Adfam’s services and projects to CH42 OLQ (0151-488 7759). Charity No 1067428 provide administrative support and to act as receptionist for visitors Closing date: 17 November 2004 Adfam actively welcomes appli- and telephone calls. This post will suit someone who wishes to gain cations from all sections of society. experience of working in a busy office on a range of tasks.
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Classified | recruitment
Community Services DAT Young Person’s Strategy Co-ordinator SO2 £24,000 - £25,407 Full time (37 hours per week) (Fixed term until March 2006, expected to extend beyond that date) Based at School House, Hopwood Lane This post has been established through the Drug Action Team’s (DAT) Young Person’s Partnership Grant arrangements. In order to deliver the national strategy at a local level, the DAT needs to ensure that all partners working with young people in Calderdale are included in the strategic planning process to ensure our services and initiatives are fully inclusive. Calderdale also been selected to pilot one of ten young person’s arrest referral schemes and we will also be piloting young person’s mandatory drug testing, these are expected to have stringent monitoring protocols. This post will work in close co-operation with the Children’s Trust Pathfinder Co-ordinator, Further to this you will need to demonstrate a sound knowledge of drug use, treatment interventions and the National Treatment Agencies requirements for implementing ‘Models of Care’. You will need to have a degree of professional qualification e.g. HND/ HNC or 3 years relevant experience. Experience of strategic planning for Young People’s service. Excellent IT skills e.g. Microsoft Office Software applications, e.g. Excel, Access and Word. Excellent verbal and written communications skills and Knowledge of the National Strategy. You must hold a full driving licence, for which a casual car user allowance will be paid. It is essential that applicants can show evidence of understanding substance use as it relates to young people and experience of strategic planning for young people’s services. For informal discussions regarding the post please feel free to ‘phone Andy Fox DAT manager on 01422 397379 or 07801 861 817 For an application pack please contact [email protected] or telephone 01422 393125. Or Fax No. 01422 252167 The closing date for applications is Monday 15th November, 2004. Interviews will be held on Tuesday 23rd November, 2004 Applicants to posts that are exempted from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act will require a Criminal Record Check (Disclosure) from the Criminal Records Bureau before the appointment is confirmed. Applicants with a disability who satisfy all the essential criteria specified for the post will be automatically offered an interview. This council is an equal opportunities employer and service provider.
2003-2004 Transforming Secondary Education 2001-2002 Local Health Strategies Investor in People
Job description excellent project management and negotiation skills East Sussex Drug & Alcohol Action Team wants to two years’ experience working in health or social develop an exciting cross-county strategy that will care in either voluntary or statutory sectors have a real impact in reducing alcohol misuse in knowledge of substance misuse and related East Sussex. This will involve the commitment and issues. Alcohol Strategy Officer creativity of a number of organisations including For informal enquiries, please contact Marcus Gomm, Department Chief Executive's Department local authorities, voluntary sectors and the NHS. Drug & Alcohol Action Team Co-ordinator on 01323 Category Community Planning This post will play a pivotal role in developing an East Sussex Alcohol Strategy and co-ordinating the 466549. Salary £25,706 - £26,624 per annum Scale M1 work of a range of partner organisations across the Location Eastbourne County. We are looking for an individual with the For an application form and information pack during Type Fixed-term 2 years following skills and qualities: office hours (8.30am – 5pm) please telephone Hours 18.5 hours per week dynamic and motivated to work in partnership 01273 482501. Or alternatively call 01273 482025 Closing date Friday 5 November 2004 with a range of organisations (answerphone) or email: Interview date Wednesday 24 November 2004 ability to think about challenges strategically [email protected] Reference Q0202 excellent communication and presentation skills quoting ref: QO202.
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Classified | recruitment
To find out about discounted advertising rates in Drink and Drugs News Thurrock Drugs Interventions call the advertising team on Programme / Community Care
020 7463 2081 This is an opportunity to join an exciting new programme that is currently being rolled out nationwide. The aim of the programme is to break the cycle of substance misuse, crime and prison. This will be achieved by intervening at various stages of the criminal justice process, thus providing opportunities for DIP clients to access help, treatment and support.
The programme will be delivered nationwide on a local level through the DIP teams. A case management system will be used in order to engage and retain clients with a variety of criminal justice and substance misuse services. It is an innovative scheme, which relies on the creativity of gifted professionals like you.
Drugs Intervention Programme (DIP), Senior Practitioner £24,492 - £25,899 pa inc, over time will be available N01003
You will lead a team of dedicated case carrying workers whilst managing a smaller load yourself. You will report to the DIP board that consists of local DAT, Police and Probation. You will be an excellent team worker and used to working with multi-disciplinary teams from the state and private sector.
Drugs Intervention Programme Worker / Community Care £22,359 - £23,805 pa inc, over time will be available N01004
You will part of a small team of dedicated case carrying workers. You will work closely with each offender to formulate a realistic care plan to meet the unique needs of individual clients. You will be an excellent team worker and used to working with multi-disciplinary teams from the state and private sector.
For both posts, you will come from a relevant background, either within a criminal justice, substance misuse or mental health setting. You will understand the principles of case management, preferably with some experience. The ability to think and work creatively is a definite plus for this challenging role along with ambition and drive.
You will be provided with a comprehensive training package and an individual training needs assessment.
The current contract period is until the end of March 2006, but this is strongly expected to be extended, subject to the current Government review.
Thurrock Council is committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community. People with disabilities will be offered an interview where they meet all Essential Criteria on the Person Specification. Job share applications are also welcome.
To obtain an information and application pack, please call our recruitment line on 0870 787 1176 between 8am – 7pm, Monday –Friday and 9am-2pm Saturday, quoting job title/post number or email [email protected]. Alternatively, you can access our website on www.thurrock.gov.uk.
Closing Date: 17th November 2004 Interview Date: 25th & 26th November 2004
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