The Life For The World Certificate in Substance Misuse, Care and Counselling has a clear Christian emphasis and is validated by the University of Gloucestershire School of Health and Social Sciences for 60 credits at level 1. It comprises four modules taken over 19 days of formal learning, typically on a day release basis, over 6 to 12 months plus a placement in a rehabilitation setting.

The Certificate matches Drug and Alcohol National Occupational Standards (DANOS) and complies with those DANOS training units recommended by FDAP (Federation of Drug and Alcohol Professionals) as part of their membership criteria. Having an academically credit rated programme of learning the course also enables students to pursue further professional learning opportunities.

The Course equips volunteers and workers in church based projects with the necessary knowledge and basic skills to assess and then provide care and support for individuals and families affected by drug/alcohol dependency. It gives a broad introduction to understanding people who are substance misusers as well as those with other dependencies.

Students are expected to carry out research and background reading for which library and bookshop facilities are available. Assessment is based on four written assignments, group seminar presentations and a learning diary. It includes portfolio evidence of an evaluation of their learning through two case studies. The final practical assignment is a 50 hour voluntary placement.

The aim is to promote professional working within a Christian framework, in both basic care and counseling with students developing a broad understanding of the scope of the drug problem and the systems of therapeutic care available and will experience how theory and practice are related.

Teaching includes workshops and discussion groups. The programme encourages students to relate what is taught to their current or future working environment. It develops personal skills and techniques and does not assume any prior knowledge of drug dependency. An introductory day is available for those students who need to develop their confidence or learning skills before starting the Certificate.