Arrest Referral

What is Arrest Referral?
The aim of the Arrest Referral Scheme is to use arrest as a key point at which to invite the individual to address their drug misuse, including onward referral to appropriate treatment and/or other services.

Description of the Service
CDAARS (Cambridgeshire Drug and Alcohol Arrest Referral Service) is a pro-active Arrest Referral Scheme that involves drug workers being in place in four police stations across the county.

They have direct access to the arrestee and work towards providing a co-ordinated programme of drug interventions at several points of contact within the Criminal Justice System, from arrest to post prison release. In doing so, they are able to provide information which in turn may enhance the effectiveness of local programmes.



Main Objectives

• To work in partnership with appropriate organisations to co-ordinate referrals and fast tracking systems.
• To identify and engage with substance users and their families, with a view to supporting pathways into care and treatment.
• To contribute towards data sharing with a view to building up a picture of risk factors that contribute to criminal activity.
• To undertake an education and awareness raising programme.

To Find out more, visit the CDAARS website at
http://www.cdaars.org.uk/