Drug Awareness in Schools

The TFS drugs awareness and mental health courses are directed by Greg Hudson who reflects on his own remarkable life journey and those around with whom he once shared bleaker times. From his initial introduction to the ‘fun’ of substance abuse by butane gas induced laughter, through his dependence on other destructive drugs and the significant effect that it had on his livelihood, family, freedom and health. The turning point that led him to the decision to change and the dreadful loss of those childhood friends who he used to joke with are confronted in an honest and pragmatic dialogue.

Even today as reformed addict, Masters graduate and leading substance abuse commentator and drugs / mental health councillor his life still bears certain restrictions (such as being barred from certain countries that many of us can freely visit) that can be traced directly back to his decision to buy his first butane canister and spliff. His approach is based on facts and he expertly denounces the myths that circulate both issues. Operating in several spheres his successes are notable, including a reduction in the reoffending of students within higher-education in excess of 92% (source: Callum Marshall, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)).

TFS have been leading the way forward with ground breaking initiatives tackling the difficult subject of substance misuse with young people.

We have supplied drug prevention programmes in various settings including pupil referral units, young offenders institutions and alternative curriculum units within mainstream schools. In addition to this we also facilitate complete school multi-component drug prevention programmes. These can be tailored to compliment existing educational programmes.

Our trainers have personal experience with substance misuse which brings an extra dimension to the primary solutions.

Below is an example of one of the programmes available.

• Input 1: An ex-users Life story. The idea behind life stories is so young people can gain an understanding of where substance misuse can lead.
• Input 2: Structured drugs education. Knowing and identifying drugs, and understanding the physical and psychological dangers associated with substance misuse.
• Input 3: Debate. An interactive discussion on why people experiment with drugs.
• Input 4: Cannabis and Alcohol. An in depth focus on two of the most commonly used substances.

The idea behind these programmes is three fold -

1. To reinforce the notion that those who have already made the decision not to use drugs that they have made the correct decision.
2. To stop or at the very least delay the onset of experimental drug use.
3. For young people who are already experimenting with drugs to give them a clear understanding of where it may lead.

Feedback

“TFS’s continuous input has made a big difference to our alternative curriculum. The kids really look forward to TFS coming, it’s been an education for us all.”
L Hunt Head of alternative curriculum Cherwell school

“I have learnt more in three hours than I have learnt in fifteen years on the job.”
CID officer Thames Valley Police

“Last year you came and spoke to our students about Drugs awareness from your own personal experience. It was an outstandingly refreshing perspective on drugs education and I was wondering if we could book you again for our new AS students.”
Josette O’Donnell, Programme Manager Access, A Levels and Applied Science

Kaz Ghalmi: Senior Substance Misuse Trainer:

Kaz has been working in the substance misuse field for ten years in various settings such as Young offenders institutions, direct access hostels for young people, care homes, secure units, and schools.

He currently trains Thames Valley Police officers, substance misuse workers, runs therapeutic groups for young people, provides a one to one service and delivers workshops and lectures on substance misuse and diversity.

His main focus and passion is working with young people who have been excluded from mainstream education or who are a part of the alternative curriculum within schools.

Kaz has had personal experience with substance misuse which brings an extra dimension to his workshops.