What's New
Welcome to the What’s New section of the ASCERT website.
Here you will find all of the latest news and updates from our organisation, along with listings of events and activities we are planning, attending or profiling that may be of interest.
You can also check out our Blogs section which contains interesting, informative and engaging personal perspective pieces from a range of contributors who are either directly connected to ASCERT, or whom are like us, keen to impart knowledge and experiences that may support others to address alcohol and/or drug related harm and support positive change.
You may also like to visit the Training section of this website for a full listing of available training courses and programmes.
ASCERT NEWS
Impact Report shows how ASCERT is delivering change
We have published our latest Impact Report for the 2020/21 year to demonstrate the work of the charity and the outcomes we have delivered in that period. This report provides an overview of the services we provide across Northern Ireland and the difference we have...
ASCERT strikes GOLD with Investors in People
Pictured are ASCERT Chief Executive Gary McMichael and HR & Corporate Services Manager Ciara Hughes. ASCERT have been awarded a “We Invest in People, Gold Accreditation” from Investors in People. Investors in People is the international standard for performance...
New NI Substance Use Strategy Launched
The NI Minister for Health has launched a new 10 year strategy to respond to substance use in Northern Ireland. Preventing Harm,Empowering Recovery: A Strategic Framework to Tackle the Harm from Substance Use (2021-31) In response to this ASCERT Chief Executive Gary...
ACEs E-Learning Programme Launched
ASCERT are delighted to offer two new e-learning programmes aimed specifically at people working in roles where they encounter Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Level One Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Awareness E-Learn Programme Level Two Developing Trauma...
COVID19: Harm Reduction Advice for Drug Users
The following information has been compiled from advice available from the US Harm Reduction Coalition, Crew2000, Transform Drug Policy Foundation and extern. All drug use has risks. Please bear in mind that now is a particularly risky time to take drugs. This page...
Self-Care : Now When We Need It Most
As we all move though these challenging times, looking after ourselves is more important than ever. Whether you are a practitioner, parent or carer, we have been focused on helping and caring for others as we deal with the challenges we face from the pandemic. That...
ASCERT BLOG
The Reality of Balance
Jennie Boyle shares her thoughts on achieving a work life balance This week 10th- 15th October marks Work Life Balance week. It has me thinking a lot about where I work now and comparing it to environments past. The pandemic (yes we are still talking about it)...
Alcohol and Caffeinated Drinks
Has the pandemic changed how we work?
 It is obvious we have all changed how we work within the last year and for ASCERTs recent staff meeting each service was asked to give a short update on how they have adapted and changed their work within that period, highlighting their achievements and...
Alcohol and Cold Weather
Why you have to be extra careful if you’re out drinking alcohol in freezing temperatures. The cold weather is definitely setting in again, but that doesn’t mean social lives have ground to a halt. However, if your destination is the pub or a club and you’re drinking...
Staying at Home an Opportunity or a Threat?
As humans we are hard wired to interact with each other, especially in a times of stress. Separation from our family and friends can result in a person feeling lack of emotional support and companionship. This lack of contact can lead to increased anxiety and hinder...
Being realistic about the Take 5 steps to wellbeing…
Jennie Boyle, Western Connections Worker at ASCERT. Whilst it is great to promote campaigns and initiatives under an umbrella, I sometimes think this can be off-putting for some people- it is almost like we make it sound more difficult or theoretical than it needs to...
Events
Young People and Substance Use Online Seminar
ASCERT 2021 seminar seriesStatistics show that the prevalence of drug use for young people is generally declining but for those young people that have substance use problems, they have increasingly significant and complex needs. This free online event considered the...
Online Parent Support Group
Our Parent/Carer Support Programme is open again for registration. It will commence on 28th October at 7-8:30pm. It will take place every Tuesday for 6 weeks via Zoom. The programme is aimed at parents /carers of young people aged 11 – 15yrs and is FREE to join. This...
Addiction and Gambling Online Seminar
Online Seminar 28th September 2021 Addiction and Gambling is the third event in ASCERT’s 2021 seminar series. This free online event considered the impacts of gambling addiction, increasing prevalence in gambling problems in the UK and Ireland and the...
A Conversation with Dr Gabor Mate
We are delighted to be joined by Dr. Gabor Maté  for the second of our 2021 ASCERT Online Seminar Series. The online Zoom event took place place on Tuesday 20th April 2021. ASCERT staff Pamela Quiery, Marie Blaney and Julie McNamara spoke to Dr. Maté about addiction,...
Webinar: The future of Cannabis as a medicine in Northern Ireland
Is Cannabis the latest flavour of the month or should it become a menu staple to treat chronic health conditions? In this webinar we hear from Professor David Nutt, Edmond J. Safra Professor of Neuropsychopharmacology and Director of the Neuropsychopharmacology Unit...