Youth Drug and Alcohol Solutions

Youth Drug and Alcohol Solutions (YDAS)
YDAS provides a high-quality, caring service for young people aged 18 and under across Milton Keynes. Our service sits within Children's Social Care at Milton Keynes City Council.
 
Drug and alcohol misuse can have serious effects on a young person's health, wellbeing, and future opportunities, be that their own or a significant other. Substance use and its associated risks during childhood and adolescence can impact physical development, emotional wellbeing, and educational achievement. Many adults experiencing long-term substance misuse difficulties began using drugs or alcohol at a young age.
 
Our service offer; 

• Support for young people affected by parental substance use (Hidden Harm).
• Information and guidance about drugs and alcohol through workshops, assemblies and training for professionals.
• Support and interventions for young people affected by their own drug or alcohol use.

 
Our aim is to help young people make informed choices and develop the skills, confidence, and strategies needed to lead healthy, safe, and fulfilling lives. 
 
Training and Awareness Sessions:
YDAS delivers drug and alcohol awareness sessions for:

• Schools – drug and alcohol awareness education for all young person age groups. This is tailored to an age-appropriate level and is able to cover the topics within Key stage 2 ad 3 PSHE curriculum areas. This can be delivered through assemblies or classroom-based workshops and lessons. 

 

• Professionals – understanding current drug trends, the effects of commonly used substances, and emerging concerns. Also, guidance and support around recognising the hidden harms and the appropriate next steps to access support for young people and their families. 

 

• Community Groups – supporting partners to increase awareness and recognise signs of substance use.