Ex and stabilised drug users aged between 16 and 40
Getting into Gear is a new project, which has been developed by West Lothian Drug & Alcohol Service (WLDAS) as part of an integrated package of care. The project was one of twelve chosen for priority by the Scottish Executive as part of its rehabilitation programme for drug users. It has received start-up money from the Scottish Executive and a commitment for 3 years from West Lothian Drug Action Team. The project aims to address the barriers faced by drug users in accessing education, training and employment.
Ex and stabilised drug users aged between 16 and 40
Those who are resident in West Lothian
Those who have either been off drugs, or stabilised on a prescribed
programme, for 3 months or more
Those who want to make a positive change in their life
The programme is designed to look at individual needs and to provide training, learning and development opportunities along with personal and career guidance and help with job seeking skills. The course will last an average of 8 weeks and run for 14 hours per week between 10.00am and 3.00pm Monday - Friday. The programme will take place at various venues across West Lothian.
The programme includes a wide variety of activities such as:
Arts, crafts and drama
Outdoor pursuits
Confidence building
Working with others
Stress and anger management
Information technology
Finding out about skills and interests
Looking at options for the future
Placements and tasters
Job seeking skills
Initially, referrals will be taken from the WLDAS Counselling Service, the Community Drugs Problem Service, the Social Work Department and the Criminal Justice Team. Referrers are asked to complete a short referral form. Information and advice on completing this form can be obtained by telephoning the Getting Into Gear Team.
Once the referral form has been completed the
prospective client will be seen by one of the project workers for an initial
interview. This interview will normally take place within two weeks of the
referral form being received. Both the client and the referrer will be
informed of the outcome of the application within two weeks of the assessment
interview.
Where the start date for the next course is some time away a reminder letter
will be sent prior to the programme.