Youth alcohol & drug outreach services

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An outreach service provides assessment, support and on-going case coordination to young people with alcohol and drug problems, in their own environment. The service also supports generalist agencies that work with young people, through information, education and training.

Target group

Young people up to the age of 21 years whose use of licit and illicit drugs causes significant physical, psychological and social harm.

Key service requirements

• Minimise the harm caused by alcohol and drug use.
  
  
• Encourage withdrawal and provide post-withdrawal support.
  
  
• Provide assessment, support and case management on an outreach basis to young people in their own environment.
  
  
• Operate from a location which is accessible to young people, for example co-location in an existing youth service.
  
  
• Provide on-going support to young people in an accessible, "open door" capacity.
  
  
• Maximise flexibility in treatment and support services so that, where possible and appropriate, young people can maintain their current environment with minimal disruption to themselves or others.
  
  
• Provide support, information and resources to generalist agencies that work with young people.
  
  
• Develop inter-service networks and linkages to ensure appropriate and coordinated on-going case coordination and referral processes.
  
  
• Make and follow through referrals to appropriate services.
  
  
• Provide appropriate services for carers and families of those affected by alcohol and drug use.

More information

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