Teachers, youth workers and other professionals working with children and young people across Worcestershire say they are now ‘better equipped to have conversations around substance use’, thanks to ‘eye opening’ training from drug education charity, Hope UK.
Hope UK’s drug awareness training includes quizzes, case studies and opportunities for small group discussion. A particular highlight of the training is seeing what substances young people are likely to encounter, and what they look like with the use of replicas.
The training is funded through the Safer Worcestershire Partnership which includes Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health Team and Police and Crime Commissioner, John Campion. Director of Public Health Dr Lisa McNally and Assistant Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Mackay recently attended a session by Hope UK’s CEO Sarah Brighton at Birchensale Middle School in Redditch.
Director of Public Health at Worcestershire County Council, Dr Lisa McNally, said: “We are delighted to be working with Hope UK. This fantastic training equips educators with the knowledge to recognise signs and symptoms of drug use, improve their own practice and gain a better understanding of the issues in an ever-changing drug use landscape. This awareness allows professionals to identify at-risk young people early and intervene appropriately. This may be through open and honest conversations, discussing dangers or providing alternatives and ultimately aims to reduce the likelihood of drug use.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “A key element of the focus on breaking the drugs trade in West Mercia, is cutting the demand. That’s why it’s important that we equip our young people with the skills and education they need to make informed choices that steer them away from substance misuse. Through the Safer Worcestershire project, partners are coming together to support the work of Hope UK that helps to reduce crime, stop harm, and ultimately build safer communities.”
Sarah Brighton, CEO of Hope UK, said: “We have been privileged to work with so many fantastic schools and youth organisations in Worcestershire and see the excellent work they are doing throughout the county. We hope that our training helps these groups equip their young people with the life skills they need to manage challenging drug-related situations. We are very grateful to Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health Team and the Police and Crime Commissioner for funding this vital work.”
Since May 2024 Hope UK has trained 458 professionals. A limited number of courses are still available – for more information contact training@hopeuk.org or visit https://hopeuk.org
For more information about the Safer Worcestershire Partnership and its initiatives, please visit Worcestershire County Council’s website: Community safety partnership arrangements | Worcestershire County Council
