Cocaine hydrochloride is a powder that can be snorted or injected. Crack-cocaine can be smoked or injected. Heroin comes in several forms from brown coloured alkaloid to white hydrochloride salt. It is mainly used in its alkaloid state (brown) in the UK. It is generally smoked or injected. Injecting crack and heroin simultaneously is called ‘snowballing’ or ‘speedballing’ – a practice that comes with many risks and is covered within this course.
Course description
A one or two session course focusing on the relationship between crack and heroin, appropriate treatment and ways of working with this client group. The course covers;
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History of crack and heroin
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Current world and UK situation
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Current policy / research documents
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Who is using crack and heroin?
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Types of cocaine & heroin
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How cocaine & heroin work
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Health and Psychiatric implications
Aims and objectives
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Increase knowledge and awareness of the issues relating to crack and heroin use
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Increase knowledge of how crack & heroin is used and the effects upon individual’s physiology and neurology
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Understand the possible affects on health
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Understand how specific interventions at relevant stages can increase engagement
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Increase confidence in working with this client group
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Increase competence in working with this client group
Target audience
This course is suitable for adult drug and alcohol service providers who come into contact with clients who may be using cocaine / crack and heroin.
Staff who would benefit from the training include:
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Drug Workers and Managers
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Social Workers
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Practice / Prescribing Nurses
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Probation Staff
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Mental Health Workers
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Housing / Supported Housing Workers
National occupational standards. Units covered and supported:
SFHAD1: Raise awareness about substances, their use, and effects.
SCDHSC3111: Promote equality and rights.
SFHAA1: Recognise indications of substance misuse and refer individuals to specialists.
SCDHSC0027: Support individuals in their daily living.
PROHSS1: Make sure your own actions reduce risks to health and safety.
SCDHSC0033: Develop your own knowledge and practice.
SCDHSC0233: Develop effective relationships with individuals.
SCDHSC002: Contribute to care plans.
SCHDHSC0347: Support individuals to access employment.
SCDHSC0349: Support individuals in accessing housing and accommodation services.
