NHS-led training that supports you to make a difference
We are a trusted, national NHS provider with decades of experience supporting people with their mental health and substance use.
Our co-occurring conditions training is designed for anyone who works with people experiencing both substance use and mental health challenges. It focuses on practical skills, real-life scenarios, and approaches that help people feel more confident, capable, and supported in their day-to-day work.
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The skills outlined in this training are skills that our services implement daily to improve patient care and support people more effectively, we’re just here to help you do the same.
- Chloe Candlin - Workforce Development Manager
Why this training matters
Dame Carol Black’s independent review of drugs underlined the complex relationship between mental health and drug and alcohol use. The review identified that too often people are being excluded from mental health services until they resolve their drug problem, while also being excluded from substance use services until their mental health problems have been addressed.
This training directly responds to that challenge by fully aligning itself with national policies and guidance.
Co-occurring Mental Health & Substance Use Delivery Framework (2025)
- 74% of people starting drug and alcohol treatment have a mental health treatment need, demonstrating widespread co-occurring conditions.
- National findings show people are excluded from mental health services until they address their substance use, and vice versa.
- The framework calls for integrated care, workforce capability, and a No Wrong Door approach - directly aligned with the training.
NICE Guideline NG58
- Mandates coordinated care across mental health, substance use, housing, and social care sectors.
- States that substance use should never be a reason for exclusion from mental health services.
- Highlights the need for all staff (not just specialists) to understand and respond to co-occurring needs.
PHE Better Care for People with Co-occurring Conditions (2017)
- States that 70% of drug treatment service users and 86% of alcohol treatment service users have a mental health need.
- Identifies a high suicide risk among people with co-occurring conditions.
- Calls for improved workforce training to address an unmet need and prevent exclusion.
NHS England Community Mental Health Framework
- Recognises fragmentation and inconsistency in current service provision.
- Promotes place-based, integrated models requiring skilled, trauma-informed staff.
- Highlights inequalities and the need to support people with complex co-occurring needs.
Training overview
Module 1: Drug and Alcohol Awareness Summary
- Overview of substance use trends and reasons for use.
- Simple explanation of how substances affect the body and mind (no detailed drug lists).
- Recognising early indicators of harm, dependency, and withdrawal.
- Core harm reduction principles, including safer-use advice and reducing barriers to support.
- Alcohol awareness: units, drinking patterns, and identifying risky or dependent drinking.
Module 2: Co-Occurring Conditions & Integrated Working
- What co-occurring conditions are and how mental health and substance use interact.
- Risks including suicide, overdose, disengagement, and system barriers.
- Trauma-informed practice, reducing stigma, and supporting engagement.
- Practical integrated working: No Wrong Door, joint assessments, care planning.
- Case studies illustrating challenges and effective NHS practice models.
Why Inclusion?
Strengthen your skills today
This training is designed for anyone who works with people experiencing both substance use and mental health challenges. It focuses on practical skills, real-life scenarios, and approaches that help people feel more confident, capable, and supported in their day-to-day work.
Want to enhance your practice? Download our information pack for more information, including special offers and booking details.
If you have any queries, please contact us at Inclusion.Training@mpft.nhs.uk