How to become an Alcohol and Drug Worker
Alcohol and drug workers provide assessment, support and intervention to clients with alcohol and drug issues and implement health promotion and community intervention programs.
Personal requirements for an Alcohol and Drug Worker
- Able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people
- Able to take initiative
- Leadership qualities
- Good interpersonal and communication skills
- A non-judgmental attitude
- Good planning and organisational skills
- Able to deal with conflict and remain calm in stressful situations.
Duties & Tasks of an Alcohol and Drug Worker
Alcohol and drug workers may perform the following tasks:
- Assist with the implementation of health promotion and community intervention and education programs on drug and alcohol awareness
- Work with clients who are experiencing problems with alcohol and/or drugs
- Provide support to explore alternatives with clients who experience difficulties with alcohol and/or drugs
- Provide alcohol and/or other drug withdrawal services
- Provide needle exchange services
- Provide emergency response intervention services
- Identify and help children and young people at risk of harm
- Provide information and support related to health, wellbeing and parenting
- Provide emergency response to individuals at risk of self-harm or suicide
- Act as an advocate on behalf of clients
- Assist with the evaluation and preparation of reports requesting funding for programs and new projects
- Arrange clients to be referred to other appropriate specialist professionals or support workers.
Working conditions for an Alcohol and Drug Worker
Alcohol and drug workers can work indoors and outdoors: in clinics, rehabilitation centres, community organisations counselling services or health services; or on the streets. Hours may be irregular and weekend and night work may be required.
Specializations
Alcohol and Drug Worker
Alcohol and drug workers provide assessment, support and intervention to clients with alcohol and drug issues and implement health promotion and community intervention programs.
