Warwickshire Connexions receives funding for 2.5 Substance Misuse PA's through Warwickshire DAT who supervise and offer further expertise.
The Substance Misuse PA's have a more in-depth knowledge of all drug related issues and work with the more at risk young people at a Tier 2 level. There is also a team of generic PA’s who work with young people at a Tier 1 level. If a Tier 1 worker is concerned about a young person and their substance use, then they will refer on to a substance misuse PA, they will however remain that young persons Key worker to ensure continuity of service.
Connexions staff have links with a wide variety of agencies so can easily refer young people on to appropriate services including behaviour and anger management or Relate when family conflict is an issue.
The approach is one of harm reduction and diversion and there are many activities available for young people to take part in including art and music workshops. It is felt it's important to have staff that will support the young person and that their impartial approach is helpful to their clients.
The substance misuse workers are able to offer training to other staff and other agencies, they also carry out group work in schools and undertake outreach work, going out to engage young people in local parks, youth clubs and other venues where young people meet. |
