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Working with young people: A profile of projects funded by the Partnership Drugs Initiative
Perth and Kinross: Connect Project
The project aims to engage with young people, primarily those in the 14-18 age group, with substance misuse issues. The service works to achieve harm reduction but with an ultimate aim of abstinence.
April 2002
The project has four workers, two of whom are seconded from Perth & Kinross council, and a team leader who also has other responsibilities. All of the workers have previous experience in social work with children and/or young people. Two of the staff have come out of retirement after working in senior social work positions. The paid staff are supported by volunteers who act as buddies/mentors to clients. In July 2003 there were six volunteers.
The project is based in Perth and aims to cover the Perth and Kinross area, particularly Auchterarder, Crieff, Aberfeldy and Blairgowrie. To date most of its work has been in Perth and Blairgowrie.
Work takes place in the project offices and/or anywhere off site that is convenient for the client and staff.
Young people whose substance use, including alcohol, is considered a problem.
On referral an initial assessment of a client is made using the EuroADAD assessment tool. From this a programme will be developed to match the individual's needs. Clients may be seen for an indefinite period of time but a review of their case takes place every three months.
As stated above, following an initial assessment, a care plan will be arranged to fit the young person's needs. Typically this will be organised around one to one counselling sessions, but may also include mediation with a school or parents, support in gaining work experience, or buddying by a volunteer. The service works to achieve harm reduction but with an ultimate aim of abstention. If necessary a session, typically two hours in length, may take place as frequently as four or five times a week. The sessions can draw on cognitive behavioural techniques and establish a set of goals for the individual.
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