We are looking for a dedicated and compassionate Substance Misuse Practitioner to join our team, working within an integrated healthcare framework to support adults (18+) involved in the criminal justice system who require help with their drug and/or alcohol use.
You will provide client-centered treatment, delivering a range of psychosocial interventions using both harm reduction and abstinence-based approaches depending on individual need. A key aspect of this role will involve advising magistrates and probation teams on the suitability of individuals for Alcohol Treatment Requirements (ATRs) and Drug Rehabilitation Requirements (DRRs).
Through close collaboration with the Forward Trust’s Criminal Justice Team and partner agencies, you will complete assessments, author referrals, provide initial harm reduction advice, and contribute to seamless continuity of care.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver structured psychosocial interventions to service users in both 1:1 and group settings.
- Carry out comprehensive assessments, risk management plans, and develop SMART care plans.
- Provide expert advice to courts, magistrates, and probation teams on ATRs and DRRs.
- Facilitate group sessions using motivational interviewing and other evidence-based techniques.
- Build strong working relationships with partner agencies, including police, probation, CRC, and prisons.
- Contribute to service outcomes and targets set by Forward Trust and local commissioners.
- Ensure safeguarding, equality, diversity, and holistic care principles are embedded in practice.
- Travel as required to local prisons and partner agencies.
- Work flexibly, including occasional evenings and weekends, to meet client needs.
About You
We are seeking someone with proven experience of working within substance misuse services and the criminal justice system, alongside the following:
Essential Experience & Skills:
- Experience delivering structured interventions, both 1:1 and group-based.
- Strong assessment, care planning, and risk management skills.
- Knowledge of substance misuse issues, the criminal justice sector, safeguarding, and the recovery agenda.
- Experience working with CJ agencies such as probation, prisons, or police.
- IT literacy and accurate record-keeping.
- Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Desirable Experience & Knowledge:
- Experience of facilitating groups and using motivational interviewing techniques.
- Knowledge of NHS health and wellbeing outcomes.
- Familiarity with community support services and continuity of care.
- Understanding of 12-step recovery principles.
- Experience of utilising clinical supervision.
Additional Requirements:
- Full UK driving license with access to a vehicle.
- Flexibility to work evenings/weekends when required.
- If applicable, personal experience of addiction (minimum 3 years in recovery) or imprisonment (released at least 5 years).