The ARBD service began as a pilot project in the Levenmouth area in 2011. The project has proven to be such a success that the service now covers Fife wide.

To ensure the service is as accessible as possible, anyone can make a referral to the service either by referral form (attached), telephone, email etc. Referrals are discussed in our weekly meeting and we aim to offer initial assessment appointments within 3 weeks to establish a baseline of cognitive functioning. Those who have been referred should have a past or current history of harmful or hazardous drinking and show signs of cognitive impairment e.g. inaccurate memories, disorientation, inability to screen relevant information, attention deficits, difficulty in planning and executing plans, poor judgment, self neglect etc. If the patient meets the criteria they are then admitted to the ARBD nurse service.

Once admitted to the service, the ARBD team works collaboratively with colleagues from a variety of different disciplines including; Psychiatry, Occupational Therapy, Addiction Services, Social Work and the Voluntary Sector to establish a tailored package of support to assist patients to live as independently as possible.