NCJ Number
219823
Journal
Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy Volume: 14 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2007 Pages: 193-204
Date Published
June 2007
Length
12 pages
Annotation
In an examination of the extent of actual drug- and alcohol-related activities occurring within further education (FE) colleges, a national survey was undertaken in England targeting all medium to large colleges to identify provisions in reducing drug- and alcohol-related activities taking place.
Abstract
Non-curriculum student welfare staff was identified to be widely available and most commonly involved in activities such as referral and provision of leaflets, with teaching staff delivering formal curriculum and tutorial-based work. External agencies were involved with three-quarters of colleges, with a similar proportion of colleges also having a drug policy in place. External agencies appear to play a key role in the delivery of activities and services in many colleges. Beyond the formal policies, it is clear that there is much diverse drug and alcohol activity actually taking place. The potential for a contribution to be made by further education (FE) colleges to reduce drug- and alcohol-related harm has recently been recognized at a national level. However, little is known about the extent of actual drug- and alcohol-related activities taking place. A national survey for England was undertaken targeting all medium to large colleges and achieving a 92 percent response rate. The survey aims to investigate four important areas of study. These are non-curriculum student welfare services, drug and alcohol policy issues, current provisions of drug and alcohol education and other dedicated activities, and perceived problems, needs and future directions. Specifically, the study addresses the nature of drug policy content, key staff responsibilities and training, levels of satisfaction with current provisions and existing problems and needs, thoughts on future developments, resource issues, and interests. Tables, references