Research
The ADS aims to deliver evidence-based services to all its users. We collect
and collate data on our services for the purposes of performance management and
for external review.
However, we recognise that there is a world of difference between this and research
undertaken in controlled conditions with a sound methodological basis. We have
therefore developed a relationship with the University of Hull that allows for
valid research to be undertaken.
The latest research project concerns ‘help seeking’ and is coming
to its conclusion. Most, if not all, of the available research on this topic
has been done retrospectively - that is, subjects were questioned after they
had been in treatment for some time. This inevitably makes the results difficult
to use in any practical way because, for instance, the comments were more about
why people stayed within services or were contaminated by the subjects’ experience
in counselling/therapy.
Research Summary
"Understanding the help-seeking process in male problem drinkers: An exploratory study"
Emergent Model
By
Dr David Brackenbury BSc (Hons); ClinPsyD
December 2004
Research Summary
"Coping and Psychological Distress in Females Who Abuse Alcohol"
By
Dr Claire Ackroyd Bsc (Hons); ClinPsyD
November 2005
Training
Although there is more money than ever before coming into the substance use field,
there is a distinct shortage of trained practitioners. Never being an agency
to still and bemoan our lot, we decided to do something about it. One of the
difficulties has always been the shortage, or complete lack of, creditable training
courses that deliver the core competencies necessary for a practitioner.
We developed a course, together with our partners in the Doncaster & South
Humber Healthcare NHS Trust, which takes into account the national Drug and Alcohol
National Occupational Standards (DANOS).
The course consists of approximately six weeks chalk-and-talk and 12 weeks evidenced
learning. The first students to complete the course have recently been awarded
their certificates and the next course is being planned.
The ADS is now in the position of being able to do two things:
- We are able to offer positions to those with the enthusiasm and transferable
skills and guarantee them training to ensure they are competent in areas recognised
by a National training framework;
- and we are able to fill posts
The approach has proved so successful that a second course is being written and
accreditation is being sought.
