Responding to Substance Misuse in Young People

Join us for this essential session designed for professionals working with children and young people across social care, education, and health. This seminar offers a clear, practical guide to recognising, responding to, and supporting young people who are misusing substances, with a focus on prevention, harm reduction, and safeguarding.

📅 Date & Time: 7th May, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 Live Online via Teams
📢 Early Bird Price: £40.5 + VAT (Register 2+ weeks before)
🎟️ Standard Price: £54 + VAT (Group Discount available for groups of 5+)

Drawing on both research and real-world practice, this course will help you understand the reasons behind substance use, the risks it poses to health and wellbeing, and how to work with young people in a way that is non-judgemental, supportive, and effective.

Why This Course Matters

Substance misuse can have a profound impact on a young person’s physical health, mental health, relationships, and future opportunities. It can also increase safeguarding risks, including exploitation and offending. Professionals need the skills to spot early warning signs, respond proportionately, and support young people in making safer choices. This course will help participants:
✔️ Recognise early signs and patterns of substance misuse
✔️ Understand the drivers and risk factors for substance use in young people
✔️ Apply effective engagement and intervention strategies
✔️ Know when and how to escalate concerns under safeguarding procedures
✔️ Work collaboratively with families, schools, and specialist services

Course Highlights

🔹 Understanding Substance Misuse – Types of substances, their effects, and related risks
🔹 Why Young People Use Substances – Social, emotional, and environmental factors
🔹 Spotting the Signs – Changes in behaviour, appearance, and peer groups
🔹 Responding Effectively – Harm reduction, motivational approaches, and building trust
🔹 Safeguarding & Multi-Agency Working – When and how to seek specialist help

Meet the Trainer

Miguel Valerio is a social worker is more than 20 years of experience. His journey has taken him from research and university lecturing to hands-on work in the sector where he worked as a Responsible Individual (Children’s Homes) and Registered Service Manager (Supported Accommodation). On these roles, he was responsible for developing and overseeing services for young people, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting staff training and service improvement. His extensive experience in quality assurance, governance, and leadership has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to guide professionals in navigating the complexities of residential children’s social care.

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