Homelessness Substance Use Outreach Worker

Purpose of the role:

This role will provide an assertive outreach response to service users who are not currently engaged in treatment and have complex unmet needs, to facilitate access to services and reduce barriers to engaging in treatment. The role will work closely with housing support, homelessness services and Statutory providers of specialist clinical substance use support, and social care.

Engagement will be provided in a person centred and recovery-oriented delivery system. Working as part of an assertive street-based outreach model, the role should aim to improve motivation to engage in services and reduce dependence on crisis support and emergency services.

The post holder will be expected to work as part of a larger substance use multiagency team, supporting substance use and homelessness across Cardiff. Further information on the work of Cardiff MDT can be found at:

https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Housing/rough-sleeping/what-we-are-doing/Pages/default.aspx

https://cardiff.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s27153/hostel%20and%20support%20services.pdf

Key duties and responsibilities:

To engage with a range of individuals with substance use issues who are involved in the homelessness system whether that be in hostel accommodation, rough sleeping, begging, street sex working and street drinking with a view to engaging them in appropriate services and moving then into more settled lifestyles. To provide an assertive outreach service, supplying interventions and information regarding substance use and associated lifestyle behaviours that reduces the risk of overdose, reduces substance related deaths, reduces the spread of blood borne viruses, promotes healthy living and minimises the potential risks and impact of substance related crime and disorder on the wider community. Work with and manage a caseload of individuals who have been identified via the MDT. To participate in multi-agency initiatives including case review meetings and shared working to reduce the level of homelessness and its associated impact. Provide holistic support including support to access other non-substance use services, as well as direct assistance (e.g. With benefits, primary care, dentist, housing). To pro-actively work to increase motivation to access treatment and facilitate referral and entry into appropriate services. To work closely with CAVDAS RAPS, MDT Counsellors and harm reduction leads to access support with opiate substitute therapy (OST), alcohol clinical interventions and other health requirements (e.g. sexual health, dietary needs, oral health). Develop and maintain strong links with key stakeholders in local services. Liaise with individuals, statutory and voluntary organisations as appropriate. To work within agreed policies, procedures and protocols to safeguard children, vulnerable adults and those experiencing domestic abuse. To attend and report to safeguarding reviews, meetings and conferences such as Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC). Undertake risk assessments and develop risk management plans that seek to mitigate identified risks. Deliver harm reduction initiatives including Naloxone training, Needle Syringe Provision (NSP) and Dried Blood Spot Testing (DBST). Enter data into CAVDAS and MDT case management systems and use the systems effectively to inform work with service users and concerned others. Plan, facilitate and evaluate targeted outreach campaigns. To undertake any administrative function related to the role to a high standard, in a competent and timely manner.