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Plymouth After Dark Project - Devon
The Plymouth after Dark Project has succeeded in carrying
out its 250th Alcohol Misuse Intervention.
Since the 7 March 2007, specially trained police officers in Charles Cross
Police Custody centre have been carrying out a 'screening' procedure with
detainees for identifying levels of alcohol misuse. Screening involves
detainees completing a simple questionnaire aimed at identifying those
most at risk from alcohol misuse, irrespective of the reason for their
detention. Detainees are then offered appropriate advice and information
in an effort to facilitate change over time in any harmful drinking behaviour.
This is potentially groundbreaking activity. Although alcohol arrest referral
schemes exist elsewhere in the country, Plymouth is thought to be the
first City to offer advice to all detainees in custody, irrespective of
the reason for their detention.
"We have not had the opportunity to carry out assessments in this
way before," says Sgt Martin Worthington, 'Plymouth after Dark' Project
lead. "It has really opened our eyes to the part alcohol plays in
offending behaviour. I have been very pleased with the number of people
willing to take part in screening. Initially I was sceptical that any
detainees would take part, but the early results are encouraging, with
nearly 90 % completing the questionnaire".
The project has some really challenging targets, aiming to support up
to 50 % of prisoners detained at the Custody Centre over the next twelve
months. Working seven days a week between 7am and 3pm Screening and Brief
Intervention Workers aim to see, screen and advise as many detainees as
possible.
For more info:
http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/V3/news/latest/pressrelease.cfm?id=782