Increase Awareness about Drugs, Alcohol or Other Substances with Individuals and Groups

Learning outcomes

1 Understand legislation and policy relevant to substance use

1.1 Identify the legislation which relates to substance use and describe the difference between legal and illegal drugs

1.2 Describe government policy in relation to substance use services e.g. prevention, treatment and rehabilitation

1.3 Identify key organisations that are designed to deliver the government’s strategy on drugs and alcohol

1.4 Describe the legislation, policy and procedures regarding equality and confidentiality of information

2 Understand substance use, its effects and treatments

2.1 Describe the different substances which are available and the effects they have on the body e.g. stimulants, sedatives and hallucinogenics

2.2 Identify the street names for substances, and how these change over time and in different locations

2.3 Describe the dangers of substance use e.g. related to quantity, frequency, purity and polydrug use

2.4 Describe the methods of substance use and the risks associated with the different methods

2.5 Explain the inter-relationship between the background of individuals and the effect of substances on them: e.g. experience and expectations, mental and psychological state, physical health etc

2.6 Identify reasons why individuals use substances and the influence on substance use of individuals’ age, gender, economic disadvantage and/or emotional deprivation

2.7 Describe the relationship between substance use, crime and antisocial behaviour

3 Identify individuals’ knowledge and values about substances

3.1 Enable individuals to talk about and identify what they know and understand about substance use

3.2 Support individuals to explore their feelings and values about substance use

3.3 Interact with individuals in a manner that encourages an open exchange of views and is non-judgemental

4 Increase individuals’ knowledge and understanding of substances

4.1 Identify the gaps in individuals’ knowledge and understanding about substances, their use and effects

4.2 Demonstrate how the values and beliefs of individuals may need to be challenged in their own interests and those of others

4.3 Provide learning opportunities in a manner sensitive to individuals’ needs and confidence

4.4 Ensure that the content of the learning provision is accurate and based on up-to-date evidence