About Sheffield Alcohol Advisory Service (SAAS) Training:

Our aim is to promote excellence in drug and alcohol work through innovative training which cultivates the development of a committed, high-quality workforce.

SAAS is a community based drug and alcohol treatment agency with a proven track record for high quality vocational training that promotes excellence in working with drug and alcohol clients. We offer training because it helps to further our aim of reducing the harm caused by drug and alcohol use and to promote excellence in drug and alcohol work. All training staff are professionally qualified and experienced in both training and substance use issues.

Our Approach:

Our approach to substance use is that it serves a function in people’s lives, rather than being a disease or illness. Our aim therefore, when working with drug users is not necessarily to stop people from using, but to help people work towards their own goals and reduce the harm associated with their drug or alcohol problems. Our core philosophy is based on the cognitive behavioural model.

Our approach to training is participative and builds on the experiences of learners. We believe that high quality, well-designed training can improve the quality of services to our client group. We are committed to anti-discriminatory practice in all our services. We are committed to promoting equality, diversity and rights in all our work.

Who Is Training For?

SAAS offers specialist training which may be of interest to:

• Any agency working with clients who may be experiencing problems with alcohol and or other substances
• Organisations wishing to implement workplace policies relating to alcohol / drug use

Short Courses:

A programme of short one to three day courses is available. Some courses are accredited by the Open College Network. The programme offers a range of topics from alcohol and drug awareness and specialist alcohol / drug counselling skills to stress and time management.

In-House Training:

SAAS can design and deliver training specifically tailored for your organisation's needs. The service includes a full training needs assessment if required.

In house training can be made up from a combination of short courses (many accredited by the Open College Network), or, if you prefer, a new course can be designed to meet your particular needs (bespoke courses).

How much does it cost?

Courses for Sheffield Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) commissioned substance misuse agencies:

Places on these courses are free to the learner. You will know if you are a DAAT funded agency and will need to agree with your manager directly that the course is suited to your role.

In House Training: 

The standard charge for delivering existing courses in house is £300 per half-day session and £600 per day for Statutory Organisations. For bespoke courses fees vary depending on your requirements and we will provide a written quote after discussing your needs. For voluntary sector organisations we may be able to offer reduced rates, please enquire.

These fees include: Pre course meetings and discussion of objectives, preparation, one trainer to deliver the session for up to 15 participants, all course materials and handouts and a brief evaluation report. It does not include venue or refreshment costs.

Web site created by Tina Bell
as part of the Sheffield Community Information project