ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the growth of the specialist addiction services in Northern Ireland, and in particular the changing role within addictions treatment for the social worker. It examines addictions problems in the light of the relevant legal framework, the Mental Health Order 1986 and investigate how the legislation impinges on social workers, particularly in relation to their function as Approved Social Workers as stipulated under the Order. In examining social work with addictions in Northern Ireland one must first trace the history of the Addiction Services. Because of the advances in the addictions field, social work with clients with addictions problems in Northern Ireland now involves a more individualised package of care, formulated to meet the specific needs being presented by the individual client. The chapter explores the importance of all social workers having knowledge and specific training in assessment of and intervention with clients with substance misuse problems.
