Adolescent Health (Drug and Alcohol/360) Pathway

The Adolescent Health 360 Service (Drug and Alcohol) supports timely identification, assessment, and intervention for young people where there are concerns relating to substance use.  This focuses on young people attending the paediatric Emergency Department (referrals are received for young people up to the age of 16 years old).

The pathway enables A&E staff to make direct referrals to the specialist adolescent drug and alcohol service, ensuring that young people receive early access to appropriate support following potential first-time or emerging substance use.  This provides an opportunity for a bespoke, young-person-centred discussion focused on harm reduction, safety planning, informed choices, and reducing the risks associated with substance use.

In addition to supporting young people who may have experienced an initial episode of substance use, the pathway also strengthens identification of adolescents who may be engaging in poly-substance use or experiencing wider vulnerabilities.  Early referral allows the specialist team to develop a clearer understanding of substance use patterns, associated risks, and contributing factors.  This enables tailored assessment, intervention, and ongoing support.

Referrals are sent to the 360 Service inbox ensuring that they can be made in real time to the young person’s attendance.  The referrals are reviewed daily by the 360 Service’s duty practitioner.

This collaborative approach between A&E and the adolescent drug and alcohol service promotes earlier intervention, improves communication between services, and supports a more holistic response to young people’s health, wellbeing, and safeguarding needs.

A&E Referrals can be made via Allscripts EPR.

All other referrals can be made by email to boh-tr.360info@nhs.net or by telephone 01204 462444