SMaSH
SUBSTANCE MISUSE
and SEXUAL HEALTH
Programme
Over the past few years in Wales, we have seen an increase in blood borne virus infections (HCV and HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (including syphilis and gonorrhoea). Evidence indicates this may be a result of changes in drug markets and trends in use as well as increased sexual risk behaviour.* As such, there is a growing need for the development of integrated skills and knowledge based training dedicated to addressing issues relating to both substance misuse and sexual health and emerging trends.
In response, Public Health Wales commissioned by Welsh Government, have developed a training package which draws together specialist Substance Misuse and Sexual Health skills and knowledge to better equip front line staff working with individuals at risk of harms associated with drug and poly-drug use, alcohol and sexual risk taking. This SMaSH Training scheme has been developed by substance misuse specialists in colaboration with sexual health specialists, youth workers, LGBTQ specialists and educationalists from across Wales and the wider UK. This site is intended to give you links to training schemes that allow you to become more aware of the relationships between substance misuse and sexual health.
