Training That Makes a Difference

Professionals working with children, young people, and families may encounter individuals affected by substance use, whether through a parent’s use or their own. Having the right knowledge and confidence is essential to enable meaningful and supportive conversations.

That’s why, in November, we launched a series of specialist substance misuse training sessions designed to equip professionals with practical tools, up-to-date knowledge, and real insight from young people themselves.

Why Substance Use Training for Professionals Matters

Understanding young people and substance use is vital, as early intervention and informed conversations can make a significant difference in a young person’s life.

Our training programme was developed to help professionals:

• Build confidence in discussing drugs and alcohol with young people

• Learn about different types of substances and associated risks

• Understand the wider impact of parental drug and alcohol use on children

• Develop effective approaches to supporting young people affected by substance use

The Training Sessions

We delivered 10 sessions in total, both online and in person, allowing professionals to engage in a way that suited them. Attendees could choose to attend individual sessions or complete the full programme.

Each session focused on a key theme:

• Understanding Substance Use: Exploring different substances, their effects, and emerging trends in drug and alcohol use among young people.

• Supporting Young People: Practical strategies for engaging young people, building trust, and having meaningful conversations.

• The Impact of Parental Substance Use: Understanding how parental use affects children and young people, including developmental, psychological, and physical impacts.

Reaching Professionals Across the Sector

We’re proud to share that 111 professionals attended the training, representing a wide range of organisations working with children, young people and families. The sessions were delivered by Luke Adcock, Service Manager for The Matthew Project’s YouCan and Unity services. With over 20 years of experience supporting young people affected by substance misuse, Luke brought a wealth of expertise, real-world insight, and practical guidance to each session.

What Professionals Said About the Training

One of the strongest themes from the feedback was increased confidence. Whether it’s understanding the impact of substance use or knowing how to start a conversation, these skills are vital for anyone working with young people. By taking part in these training sessions, professionals are better equipped to support young people at risk of drug or alcohol misuse, signpost to support and create a safe environment for young people to talk.

The feedback highlights the real value of creating space for learning, reflection, and discussion:

• “I felt like my knowledge was outdated, so it was good to have an updated conversation and to know what information is still relevant today.”

• “I have a better understanding of how conversations, particularly early on, can support a young person to make positive changes.”

• “I now have more knowledge and information, which I feel more confident in sharing with young people.”

• “It was easy to understand, delivered at a good pace… very informative and interesting!”

• “I definitely feel more confident in recognising the signs and behaviours of a child experiencing parental alcohol and drug misuse.”

• “I learned about services available for young people who have parents misusing substances, alongside gaining a greater understanding of the various impacts.”

Stay Updated on Future Training Opportunities

If you work with children or young people and want to strengthen your understanding of substances, engage effectively, and explore the wider impact of parental use, keep an eye out for our future training sessions: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/the-matthew-project-119199569811