Keyworking

 

A keyworker is the named clinician responsible for the individual patient and with whom regular contact is maintained. Their aim is to engage the patient with the treatment plan and co-ordinate their care. They can also encourage the patient to learn new skills and undertake exercise to improve self-worth.

 

A keyworker can come from any background, such as nursing, social care or just volunteering with vulnerable people, however, they work towards a Level 3 qualification in substance misuse whilst working on the job.

 

Their psychosocial intervention roles include:-

• Giving drug related information- such as advice, available treatments and educating the patient on the consequences of continuing the drug use

• Giving advice and support regarding social problems, such as aiding with finding housing, childcare, employment and education

• Increasing motivation and preventing relapse by forming an alliance with the user

• Harm reduction by giving specific advice and techniques for reducing harm such as safer injecting techniques and how to minimise the risk of overdose.

• "Talking therapies” (see the following sections)