Aim

The programme aims to increase and develop participants’ knowledge and understanding of current guidance concerning the practice of safer injecting and the promotion of the history and purpose of needle exchange schemes. This includes the exploration of health and safety guidance for the collection and disposal of used syringes.

It also aims to provide information on the biology of the venous and circulatory system and harm reduction techniques to reduce damage to veins, and the transmission of blood borne viruses.

Learning objectives

On completion of the programme participants will be able to:

• Explore the background, philosophy and principles of needle exchange schemes
• Understand law surrounding provision of paraphernalia including syringes, needles and acidifiers
• Explore reasons for injecting rather than using other methods of ingestion
• Understand the biology of the venous and circulatory system in terms of injecting substances
• Discuss preparation techniques for injecting substances
• Explore potential dangers and risks involved with the practice of injecting
• Understand transmission routes of blood borne viruses and identify effective strategies to reduce associated risks
• Identify harm reduction techniques and safer injecting procedures
• Understand health and safety measures to manage syringes in the workplace

Supporting DANOS Standards:

AA4 Promote people’s equality, diversity and rights

AB2 Support individuals who are substance users

AB5 Assess and act upon immediate risk of danger to substance users

AC1 Develop your own knowledge and practice

AC3 Contribute to the development of the knowledge and practice of others

AC4 Support and challenge workers on specific aspects of their practice

AD1 Raise awareness about substances, their use and effects

AD4 Develop and disseminate information and advice about substance use, health and social wellbeing

AH3 Supply and exchange injecting equipment for individuals

BC2 Manage activities to meet customer requirements

BC3 Manage change in organisational activities

BC4 Assure your organisation delivers quality services

This course is aimed at anyone who works with injecting drug users. Those working in a voluntary, statutory or non-statutory setting.

All participants completing this course will receive a certificate of attendance and a portfolio of information for future reference in a binder.

To talk about commissioning this programme for your agency please contact us or click here to e-mail your query

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