Ice: Training for Frontline Workers
December 2015
The use of ice (crystal methamphetamine) in Australia has received much media attention in recent times. There is a pressing need for accurate and balanced information and support for workers and services in relation to appropriate evidence-based best practice options. Information is required that provides an accurate picture of the prevalence of crystal methamphetamine use in Australia, which population groups are most at risk, details of intervention options available, and steps that can be taken to help services provide effective and appropriate support and interventions for people who use crystal methamphetamine.
NCETA and its consortium partners (Australasian College for Emergency Medicine; Greater Green Triangle University Department of Rural Health; Harm Reduction Victoria; and South Australian Network of Drug and Alcohol Services) have been commissioned by the Victorian Government Department of Health and Human Services to develop and implement a standard online training resource for frontline workers who provide services and support to people who are using crystal methamphetamine.
The online training resource forms part of the Victorian Government’s Ice Action Plan.
The resource contains seven independent, but complementary, modules:
- About Ice
- Effects of Ice
- Communicating with Ice Users
- Ice Users and Critical Incidents
- Interventions
- Prevention
- Organisational Responses to Ice.
The training resource is intended for different audiences and can be used in several ways:
- Individual workers – independent learning to upskill their knowledge.
- Supervisors / managers – examine and reflect on program and service structures.
- Train-the-trainer – guide / support mechanism for other trainers including face-to-face training.
- Integration into existing accredited training programs – content can be extracted & utilised across different disciplines.
The resource is planned for release in December 2015.
