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Working with Substance Use in a Homeless Setting

Working with Substance Use in a Homeless Setting

Working with Substance Use in a Homeless Setting

Wednesday, February 19, 2025 - 9:30:00 AM until
  • 19-20 February 2025
  • 9.30am to 3.30pm
  • NICVA, 61 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GB

On Wednesday and Thursday, the 19 and 20 of February 2025 the Northern Ireland Frontline Network will be running an accredited course for frontline staff in the homelessness sector.

Unfortunately, some people experiencing homelessness can be more susceptible to developing a substance dependency. This course is designed to give an insight in to supporting people struggling with substance use in a homeless setting.

When and where is the course running?

The course is being held on Wednesday and Thursday 19 & 20 February at NICVA, 61 Duncairn Gardens, Belfast, BT15 2GB. This is a two-day course and participants need to be able to come for both the Wednesday and Thursday.

Who is running the course?

The course will be provided by ASCERT, a charity in Northern Ireland. Addressing alcohol and drug-related issues: Reducing harm and supporting positive changes in the community. All participants who complete the course will receive a certificate accredited for CPD.

What are the course objectives?

This course will provide those working in hostel settings or with clients experiencing homelessness with a detailed examination of the issues surrounding substance use for their clients. Including effects on health, harm reduction and appropriate signposting/supports.

By the end of the session participants will:

  • Have an understanding of the impact of substance use on homelessness.
  • Understand the basic principals of Motivational Interviewing and how they can be used within homeless settings to deliver brief interventions regarding substance use.
  • Know about the substances that are being used and specific risks to users, including polyose.
  • Understand a range of harm reduction practices
  • 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 Borne 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.

How much does it cost?

As with all Frontline Network events, the two-day course is entirely free for frontline staff to attend. Participants must be able to attend on both days to take part and be signed up to the Frontline Network mailing list. To sign up to join the list, simply fill in the form on the website here.

There are very limited spaces for this course, so places will be provided on a first come, first serve basis. So that as many organisations as possible can benefit from this course, organisations will be limited to a maximum of two places each. However, we will run a waiting list to make sure that as many places as possible are taken.

Can I come?

If you are a frontline worker in the homelessness sector, you would be most welcome to come along! A frontline worker is any professional who is working directly with people experiencing homelessness in Northern Ireland. The frontline network is open to staff working in the public, statutory and voluntary sectors.

How do I sign up?

You sign up by emailing admin@homelessconnect.org. Please include any dietary requirements you may have, as lunch will be provided for participants.

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