Ice: Training for Frontline Workers
The increase in people using ice (crystal methamphetamine), rather than other forms of methamphetamine, has received much media and political attention due to the unique harms associated with its use. Crystal methamphetamine is the most potent form of methamphetamine and it is usually smoked, thereby increasing the 'hit' experienced by users. In addition, although there has not necessarily been an increase in the amount of methamphetamine users, those who use it tend to do so more frequently (i.e., weekly/monthly) and belong to more vulnerable groups (e.g., young, female, Indigenous). As such, there is a pressing need for support for people who use crystal methamphetamine, their families, friends, and co-workers.
Ice: Training for Frontline Workers was developed by NCETA as part of the Victorian Government’s Ice Action Plan. It was designed to meet the needs of a wide range of frontline workers including those from the health and welfare, education, criminal justice and transport sectors, and developed following an extensive consultation process to identify key learning needs.
The package has 7 independent but complementary modules, with each containing up to 8 topics. It provides information and resources for frontline workers to enhance their existing skills and knowledge and guide workers’ practice when assisting clients and their families, and working with their colleagues.
The Training Package is very broad and comprehensive in its approach, but has a specific focus on the identification and care of people who are intoxicated with, and/or withdrawing from, crystal methamphetamine and their families and carers. The package covers a broad range of issues including:
- Information about crystal methamphetamine and its use and harms
- How crystal methamphetamine use affects people and communities
- Worker safety and preventing, managing and recovering from crystal methamphetamine-related critical incidents
- Legal issues
- Using crystal methamphetamine with alcohol and other drugs
- Communicating with and supporting people who use crystal methamphetamine
- Preventing and intervening in crystal methamphetamine use
- Organisational responses to crystal methamphetamine.
The Training Package is designed to be flexible with content that suits a variety of needs. You can work through all the modules, just one module, or any number of individual topics. You may want to just select the modules and topics that are most relevant to your particular circumstances. It’s up to you!