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BCGEU community service workers: Free training in helping people with addictive behaviours

Do you work in a B.C. community service agency and want to know how better to help serve people with addictive behaviours? This free training could be for you!

Vancouver (23 Sept. 2013) - The B.C. Government and Services Employees Union (BCGEU/NUPGE) has partnered with Canadian Mental Health Association of B.C., the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, and the Centre for Addictions Research to develop a training program called "Helping people with addictive behaviours" for front-line workers. The goal is to better equip community service workers with the skills they need to interact effectively with people who experience substance use and addictive behaviour challenges.

Online training ideal for front-line workers who do not provide direct addictions services

The training is an on-line program that takes place between October 1 and November 30. Participants take the training at their own pace with the total curriculum taking between 8 and 12 hours.

Please note that this training is designed primarily for front-line staff who do *not* provide direct addictions services - program staff, reception, custodial workers, etc. would all be great candidates. BCGEU/NUPGE is especially looking for workers who work in these types of services:

  • rural
  • Aboriginal
  • family and youth services
  • cultural services
  • emergency response
  • senior-serving organizations

Workers in the Vancouver Island and Fraser Region are particularly encouraged to apply.

If interested speak with your manager

If BCGEU/NUPGE members are interested in taking the training, please speak with your manager. Participation requires Executive Director approval. While the Union endorses this curriculum, it is up to the Employer to approve participation and the work time required to complete it. There is no cost to participating.

All information on how to register can be found in the attached Pilot Participation Form. All forms must be received by CMHA-BC before September 30.

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE