Job Description

(MGMT) Substance Use Practitioner
Please note this post may close early if there are sufficient applications
Council: Council for Social Witness (Specialist Services)
Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm)
Responsible to: Director of Carlisle House
About the Role
Carlisle House is seeking a dedicated Substance Use Practitioner to provide biopsychosocial therapeutic interventions within a residential substance use residential treatment programme. The role involves involves the execution of excellent standards of care, to promote dignity and respect, and to engage with service users in the process of change through building a strong collaborative therapeutic alliance.
Carlisle House is a residential substance use treatment centre situated near the centre of Belfast. It caters for individuals over the age of 18, who currently live within the Belfast Health Trust and Northern Health Trust areas. Service Level Agreements are held with both Trusts who are the main funders. It offers a range of services, advice and information, treatment programmes, and ongoing support services.
Key Responsibilities
RESIDENTIAL
Maintain programme boundaries and foster helpful group dynamics
To carry out alcohol/drug screening tests in accordance with Carlisle House policies and procedures when required.
To ensure a rigorous monitoring and recording practice is adhered to.
ADMISSIONS
To assist in the admission and induction of Service Users to the Residential Substance Use Treatment Programme, in accordance with Carlisle House policies and procedures.
To undertake health checks with regard to Service Users participating in physical activities.
To promote a welcoming atmosphere to all Service Users and their families.
GROUP THERAPY
Group Therapy / Groupwork is the core treatment intervention employed by Carlisle House. There are up to three groupwork sessions each day employing an integrated systemic strength-based approach.
Facilitation of 3-4 group therapy / groupwork sessions each week as set out in the group therapy manual.
To facilitate post programme, support groups - one evening every 3 months
LINK WORK
To manage an individual caseload through Link Work, promoting Service User strengths and expertise in developing, reviewing and updating treatment plans as required.
To employ the Alcohol and Drug Outcome Star to inform treatment plans
To create helpful holistic / systemic conversations with clients
To source supports, and advocate for clients post programme
To liaise with detox wards, Community Addiction Practitioners and other referral agents
To liaise with GP's and other medical professionals
To complete and manage risk assessments
MEDICATION
Take responsibility for the management of medicines of those you link work.
To record and administer medication in accordance with Carlisle House policies and current legislation and guidelines
To Re-order medication and source medication prescriptions as required
To complete medication audits and medication trails in line with RQIA requirements.
To complete Self Administration of Medication Risk Assessments, and ensure outcomes are recorded and adhered to accordingly.
TEAM MEETINGS
To participate in therapeutic team meetings and staff meetings, contributing to a cohesive team across the residential services
To engage in self-reflective groups
SUPERVISION AND DEVELOPMENT
To participate in clinical and online supervision
To engage in continual professional development and meeting the requirements of professional requirements.
To maintain mandatory training
LEAD
To fulfil the role of LEAD as on rota
To lead Handovers and delegate daily tasks
To ensure Health and Safety policies and procedures are maintained
To act as Fire Warden
Participate in an On-Call rota as required
OTHER
To be willing to work within the ethos of the Carlisle House and the Presbyterian Council of Social Witness
To undertake any other relevant duties which may be required of the post.
About the role
What We Are Looking For
Experience in substance use treatment or mental health services.
Strong understanding of group therapy and therapeutic interventions.
Experience of using a strength based model to assess need and formulate effective treatment plans
Ability to work on own initiative, to work under pressure and prioritise workload
Competency in risk assessment and safeguarding.
A commitment to professional development and reflective practice.
Why Join Us?
Work in a respected residential treatment centre.
Join a supportive and experienced team.
Opportunities for ongoing training and career progression.
Competitive salary and benefits.
Benefits:
Discount card - money off in local shops and restaurants
Free - training
Enhanced - annual leave
Free - Access NI and NISCC registration
Enhanced - maternity pay and pension scheme
Free - employee assistance programme for staff and household members 16+ years
If you are passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey, we would love to hear from you.
About the company
The Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) is a Reformed Christian denomination with congregations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Rooted in biblical teaching, PCI is committed to worship, discipleship, and serving communities through outreach and social action. The Church supports individuals and families in their faith journey while addressing social needs through ministries, education, and global mission work. Governed by elders, PCI upholds values of faith, service, and integrity, striving to share the Gospel and promote justice in Ireland and beyond.
Required Criteria

• Knowledge of addiction and treatment models
• Competent in the use of Microsoft Office, in particular Outlook / Word / Excel
• At least 1 years' experience in a relevant area of mental health or addiction, using a strength base model to assess need and formulating effective treatment plans
• Experience in facilitating Group Work / Group Therapy
• Experience of working with substance use and associated complex health needs
• Must be willing to behave in a manner which respects the Christian ethos of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland
• Available for flexible working and on call duties
• Respectful of the values, views and needs of others
• Evidence of a commitment to continued professional development
• NISCC / NMC registered or willing to apply for registration
• Willing to complete an Access NI check
• Recognised Social Work Degree or Registered Mental Health Nurse

Desired Criteria

• Post-registration training in addiction-related studies
• Post Graduate Certificate in Systemic Practice or equivalent qualification

Skills you'll need

Skills Required