Homeless Connect – Effective Conversations to Reduce Alcohol and Drug-Related Harm

18 November 2025 – Belfast

This one-day in person course focuses on enhancing client engagement and trust by responding to alcohol and drug use with empathy and practical support. It aims to increase staff confidence in managing alcohol and/or drug related situations safely. It will also strengthen organisational practices around addiction support, harm reduction, and recovery.

This course will provide learners with:

• Enhanced conversational skills around sensitive topics
• A greater understanding of the process of screening for alcohol and drug related problems; and
• Confidence to work effectively with people affected by substance issues using a brief intervention/co production approach.

By the end of this course learners will be able to:

• Have effective, appropriate conversations around sensitive topics
• Understand the concept of Brief Interventions (BI)
• Identify relevant screening tools
• Identify individuals who are appropriate for BI
• Understand how to carry out an effective BI / Identify sources of support.

The course is aimed at:

Frontline workers: Temporary accommodation staff, outreach workers, case managers, and support workers who interact directly with people experiencing alcohol and/or drug  use issues.

Healthcare providers: Nurses, social workers, mental health clinicians and addiction specialists

Peer support workers: Individuals with lived experience who provide guidance and mentorship.

Programme managers and leaders: Staff responsible for developing policies, programs, or interventions that address alcohol use among clients.

This training is facilitated by Ascert

Fee – £135 members / £165 non-members

*Please note, the training room can only be accessed via a stairwell. If this is likely to cause an issue, do let us know in advance of booking.

Register below.