Training for Frontline Workers Dealing with Violent Ice Users
21 January 2016 at 4:10 pm
A new free online training package will help frontline workers and service providers respond safely and effectively to people affected by the illegal drug ice.
The Victorian Government has launched the new $400,000 training package, which forms part of the government’s $45.5 million Ice Action Plan.
The package can be accessed online and used to deliver face-to-face training that will equip frontline workers to identify people affected by ice, understand its effects and ensure the safety of themselves, their coworkers and the broader community.
The Acting Premier, James Merlino, said the package was designed for a range of workforces, including health and human services, education, law enforcement, and other industries where people are likely to come into contact with people who are ice-affected, and their families.
“Currently, training for workers who come into contact with people affected by ice varies across the state. This new standard training will ensure all of our frontline workers are better equipped to deal with people who are ice affected,” Merlino said.
“Over the next three months, a range of resources and training modules that reflect different workplace settings will be developed for employers to use as part of their existing education and training program.
“As part of the Ice Action Plan, the Government is also investing $600,000 to expand investments in clinical supervision for mental health, alcohol and drug treatment workers by further training existing supervisors, and making sure organisations have structures for supervision and effective responses to ice in place.”
He said the government was also supporting the Turning Point Drug and Alcohol Centre to examine the existing addiction specialist workforce in Victoria and consider alternative models to deliver expanded addiction medicine services.
“Violence and aggression towards our frontline workers will not be tolerated – I’d encourage all frontline workers and service providers to incorporate this package into their existing workplace training and education programs,” he said.
