How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
College
You could do a part-time college course in substance misuse to give you some of the knowledge and skills needed to understand, prevent, and respond to drug and alcohol-related issues.
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements for this route.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with a support organisation to train as a substance misuse outreach worker.
Relevant apprenticeships include:
- Adult Care Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Peer Worker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Early Intervention Practitioner Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
Entry requirements
There are no set entry requirements but it may help you to get in if you have:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Volunteering
You could volunteer with a drug, alcohol or housing charity to build up your skills and get work experience.
You could also volunteer with a substance misuse organisation. You can find contact details of organisations from Frank.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to an employer.
You'll need a good understanding of the issues faced by people with substance misuse problems. For some jobs, you might also need experience in criminal justice, social care, youth work or counselling.
You could also apply if you have personal experience of addiction or dependency. Applications are usually welcome from people who have successfully come through treatment.