Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work

The FdA Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work is designed for individuals seeking to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work within the expanding fields of health, social care, and community support. This programme provides an introduction to the frameworks, policies, and practices that shape responses to alcohol and substance misuse, preparing you for meaningful roles in frontline services.
You will explore key themes such as health and social policy, safeguarding, community support, and professional practice, while developing transferable skills in communication, analysis, and reflective practice. Learning is strongly applied, encouraging you to connect theory with practice through work-related experience and case study analysis.
The course has been shaped in consultation with employers, ensuring you gain relevant, workplace-ready skills that support both immediate employment opportunities and further study. It also serves as a clear pathway to the FdA Alcohol and Substance Misuse Work and related higher-level qualifications.

Course Modules

Year 1
Care assessment and planning;
Drug and alcohol strategy and legislation;
Sociology of health;
Concepts and models of addiction;
Professional practice and personal development planning;
Introduction to research

Year 2
Independent Research Project;
Harm reduction;
Community involvement and engagement;
Advanced professional practice;
Prevention;
Treatment and recovery

Essays and written assignments – analysing policies, frameworks, and approaches to substance misuse.
Reports and case studies – applying theory to real-world practice and service delivery.
Presentations and seminar contributions – developing communication skills and professional confidence.
Portfolios of work-related learning – evidencing reflection, applied skills, and voluntary or placement experience.
Group projects and discussions – encouraging teamwork and collaborative problem-solving.