Drug and alcohol addiction to be tackled through new training programme

People with alcohol and drug addiction problems are set to
benefit from a new national training programme funded by the
Scottish executive.

The Scottish Training on Drugs and Alcohol Programme, devised by
the University of Glasgow and the drugs charity Drugscope, will
help staff and managers working in the social care sector to
recognise, assess and tackle alcohol and drugs misuse.

Iain Gray, deputy justice minister, said: “Strada’s aim is
to ensure our care professionals get the most up-to-date training
on these issues, covering both the latest professional advice and
our drugs strategy.”

The programme will link what is known to work from research as
well and take benefit from international experience. It will
provide free training for social work and health professionals and
target those who work with key groups such as those with mental
health problems, offenders, women, young people and
substance-misusing parents. A charging system is to be put in place
for police, prison and education staff.

Roger Howard, Drugscope chief executive, said: “It is crucial
that anyone coming in contact with those with alcohol problems is
properly trained to know how best to help.”