Turning Point launches dual diagnosis handbook

A new handbook aims to improve dual diagnosis services for people with substance use and mental health problems.

It aims to encourage practitioners to listen to the needs of clients instead of “adopting a ‘one size fits all’ approach”.

It was launched by Turning Point, a UK social care organisation, in London today and is supported by the Department of Health, building on its Dual Diagnosis Good Practice Guide of 2002.

Caroline Hawkings, senior policy and public affairs adviser at the organisation and co-author of the handbook, said: “Dual diagnosis is a challenge both for the individuals needing support and for the people working with them.”

The handbook illustrates best practice through case studies and offers advice on assessing both conditions, sharing information, pooling budgets and overcoming professional barriers from frontline practitioners, agencies and experts involved in dual diagnosis.

Community Care is running a conference on Tuesday 11 December – Pathways into Social Inclusion for Adults with Complex Needs – in central London. Speakers include Peter Beresford, Richard Kramer, Bobby Cummines and Julia Unwin. Call 020 7357 3575 for more information or to book a place.

More information

Turning Point Dual Diagnosis Best Practice Handbook

Mind fears inertia on dual diagnosis

https://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2007/02/08/103259/mind-fears-inertia-on-dual-diagnosis.html

Guidance launched for mental health patients who have substance misuse problems

https://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2007/02/06/103242/guidance-launched-for-mental-health-patients-who-have-substance-misuse.html?key=DRUG%20ABUSE

Essential information on mental health