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RUSH EDITION #2, AUTUMN 2015

Isn’t it ‘crystal clear’?

COPING WITH ICE A guide for family and friends

ICE

“My Journey Into Pharmacotherapy”

hits Tasmania hard!

What is ‘Addiction to Drugs’?

Street Teams

“We’ve Got Your Back” RUSH magazine is an initiative of The Salvation Army (Tasmania Division) and is supported by the Australian Government Department of Health

RECOVERY

RECIPE!

CONTENTS

EDITOR’S BLOG some of the issues relating to the recent review of the Tasmanian Opiate Pharmacotherapy Policy.

RUSH welcomes readers back to this 2nd issue of the popular magazine centred on AOD (Alcohol & Other Drugs) issues in our community.

Thanks for all the overwhelming positive feedback about the magazine and its content. A special thanks for the ongoing financial support of the Commonwealth Department of Health.

Readers will no doubt be aware of the current issues and problems relating to widespread use of the drug methamphetamine “ICE” Although the issues relating to its use have affected many Tasmanians, the largest affected area has been the NW Coast, so in this issue we feature articles relating to community solutions put in place to tackle the “ICE” issue in this area.

We have also been fortunate to be able to feature a personal story first hand from an “ICE” user who is now in recovery, but details the detrimental effects this drug had on both him personally and his immediate family.

We also touch on yet another very important topic in this issue, and that is opiate pharmacotherapy treatment for users with opiate dependency. For a lot of these individuals the opiate pharmacotherapy program and policy relating to their therapy has been problematic.

We feature a personal story of such an individual who gives us a firsthand indication of what it’s like to be on opiate pharmacotherapy, in addition to some of the practical issues and problems experienced by her.

In addition to this we have featured an article by Advocacy Tasmania detailing PAGE 2

RUSH magazine values its consumer/ user input and would like to take this opportunity in welcoming Mark Jones to his new position as President of TUHSL (Tasmanian Users Health & Support League)and we look forward to hearing more from him in future issues.

COPING WITH ICE A GUIDE FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

The Salvation Army Bridge Centre

Page 3

A Northwest Communities Solution

Page 4

Dilemmas in Tackling ICE Usage in TAS

Page 6

Street Teams

Page 7

“My Journey into Page 8 Pharmacotherapy” A personal story

We hope you enjoy reading this issue of RUSH and until next time take care and stay safe.

Dr Brian Morris Editor – RUSH Magazine 0405 996 908 drbrianmorris@hotmail.com www.bridgetasmania.org.au

“Ice in Sam’s Life” A personal story

Having a family member or friend who uses ice (crystal methamphetamine) can be stressful and worrying. It’s normal to feel helpless, frustrated, anxious and upset. But you are not alone and help is available. This brochure provides some information and advice to help you. You can find more information and support through the services listed on the following page.

UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECTS Drugs can affect people differently, but some of the effects of ice can include: • Feelings of pleasure and confidence • Increased alertness and energy • Repetition of simple actions like itching and scratching • Enlarged pupils and dry mouth • Teeth grinding and excessive sweating • Fast heart rate and breathing • Reduced appetite • Feelings of paranoia or anxiety • Agitation or aggressive behaviour It can take several days to ‘come down’ from using ice. The following effects may be experienced during this time: • Difficultly sleeping and exhaustion • Headaches, dizziness and blurred vision • Paranoia, hallucinations and confusion • Irritability and feeling ‘down’

DEPENDENCE People who regularly use ice can quickly become dependent on it. They may feel they need to use ice to go about their normal activities like working, studying and socialising, or just to get through the day.

Some people who regularly use ice may start to feel less enjoyment with everyday activities.

They can get stressed easily and their moods go up and down quite quickly. These changes can lead to longer term problems with anxiety and depression.

People may feel these effects for at least several weeks or months after they give up ice.

health.vic.gov.au/ice

WHAT YOU CAN DO LISTEN If your family member or friend wants to tell you something about their situation, listen carefully without getting annoyed or upset. Let them speak without interruption. After they have finished speaking, repeat back to them what you have heard and understood so they can explain any misunderstandings.

Don’t try to solve their problem. Real, longterm change will only happen when they take responsibility for their actions and deal with the consequences.

ENCOURAGE CHANGE A person using ice needs to be ready to change before they can enter the recovery process. But you can help promote change by asking calm, respectful questions such as: • “What do you like about using ice?”

• “What don’t you like?”

• “Where does that leave you?”

Coping With Ice: Page 10 A guide for friends and family

Try to avoid pushing for answers. It’s okay to leave the questions hanging there.

Choose a time to talk when they are relaxed and aren’t affected by ice.

SET BOUNDARIES Communicate rules about what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour in your home and the consequences for breaking these rules. Work out your limits, be clear and direct, and stick to what you say.

AOD Services Directory

Page 12

Recovery Recipe

Page 14

ATDC: Consumer?

Participant?

Page 14

TAS Residential Network

Page 15

What they’re saying about the TOPP

Page 16

What is ‘Addiction to Drugs’?

Page 18

Profile: Hobart City Mission

Page 20

Everyone is a Job Seeker

Page 22

PO Box 670, Moonah, Tasmania 7009 RUSH is published by The Salvation Army (Tasmania Division) Bridge Centres. It is produced with the funding support of the Australian Government Department of Health and is printed by NewPrint. The views and opinions expressed in the articles in RUSH magazine are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily represent the views of The Salvation Army, the Australian Government Department of Health or any other organisations. Some images used in this magazine depict models.

Requests for information about RUSH or advertising inquiries should be addressed to The Editor, RUSH, The Salvation Army Bridge Centre, PO Box 670 Moonah Tasmania 7009. For further information regarding The Salvation Army Bridge Centres, visit www.bridgetasmania.org.au The Salvation Army: William Booth, Founder Andre Cox, General Floyd J Tidd, Territorial Commander

ISSN 2203-5729

RUSH was was to to feature feature an an important important RUSH article relating relating to to stigma stigma and and it’s it’s article effects on on consumers consumers to to be be written written effects

by Dr Dr Kim Kim Ryan.

Ryan. Unfortunately, Unfortunately, due due by to aa long long illness, illness, Dr Dr Ryan Ryan passed passed to away before before he he was was able able to to finish finish away writing his his article. article. We We would would like like writing to extend extend our our best best wishes wishes and and to condolencesto tohis hisfamily familyand andRUSH RUSH condolences will pick pick up up on on this this important important topic topic will inupcoming upcomingissues, issues,so sokeep keepposted. posted. in

“I began to remember the person I was before the drug took over”

ICE IN SAM’S LIFE Sam* went from being a social Ice (crystal methamphetamine) user of a weekend for fun to thinking that it was cool to be a drug addict. This is his journey.

“I quickly lost control of my own life.

A broken marriage and not being able to see my two children was hard to deal with. What was once fun and recreation turned into an expensive addiction. While using ‘Ice’ every day, I lost another relationship, I quit my full time job, lost interest in sports (which I was very passionate about), my confidence and understanding of who I was as a person.

All I was concerned about was where I could get more drugs.

I no longer had any friends. My family was running low on patience with me. I lived for the drug and the drug only. At rock bottom, I found myself owing thousands of dollars, lying and stealing from my own family to cover my addiction.

My family rescued me (again) and I saw this time as the wake-up call I needed.

I contacted The Salvation Army and started counselling. After a few weeks

of being clean, I attended an eight week residential rehabilitation program at The Bridge Centre in Hobart. This gave me the strategies and strength that I needed to beat the addiction.

I began to remember the person I was before the drug took over my life.

Now 26 weeks clean, I have all of my family and friends back on my side supporting me.

I am back playing sport and am enjoying my life once again. The simple things, like going for a walk, or hanging out with my friends are things I enjoy.

I now sleep at night and every day I wake up knowing it is a blessing. The road to recovery has not been easy, but certainly well worth the effort.

I have made contact with Legal Aid and have started the process towards having contact with my two children.

I look forward to rebuilding my bonds with my children and to grow as a father. Christmas was the first time

I had seen my children since my recovery started. To be able to give them gifts and to hug them both makes the journey worthwhile.” *Sam is not this young man’s name, but the story is of the experiences of someone who chosen to share this, hoping others will choose recovery.

real real has that

Editors Comment: Fantastic story of recovery Sam. We all wish you and your family the very best in the future and appreciate you sharing this with us all.

CONTACT DETAILS: The Salvation Army Bridge Centre Tel (03) 6278 8140 www.bridgetasmania.org.au

PAGE 3

RUSH

METHAMPHETAMINE ‘ICE’ – A NORT

“Prevention, promotion, early intervention hand in hand with education can help people avoid years of enormously costly substance abuse and mental illness.”

People are born with potential. Why are they so easily distracted by this horrific drug?

Drugs have been around for many years and over time, the types of drugs used, their availability, popularity and the social and economic harms they cause have varied.

Drug & Alcohol services have done heaps to provide support, treatment and recovery services to individuals, their families and the community as a whole, but the introduction of Methamphetamine “ICE” into our local areas has thrown up a whole new set of issues for drug users, family members and communities.

For instance, the rapid onset of serious mental health issues associated with the drug presents significant problems for health workers, police, families and communities. Evidence regarding its use is not very well reflected in current PAGE 4

statistics and studies but if asked, frontline workers may surprise with the response that more and more people are seeking treatment and at a younger age, with youth in the North West reporting widespread use of “ICE”.

A very unwell “ICE” user recently had lost at least 10 kilos in a very short time. He was often talking to himself as he walked up the street in Burnie.

He said: “It’s everywhere and easy to get, I try to get clean but it’s hard. I can get about a week off sometimes and then its payday and off I go again”.

Stories like this are becoming more and more common despite the efforts of law enforcement and drug and alcohol services.

The question arises frequently in small communities and large; “what can we do better to stop this?”

Despite best efforts and after many years there is an increase in the number of people using drugs and in particular, problems associated with Methamphetamine “ICE”.

Concerned or interested people spend many hours wondering why people use drugs and come up with the common answers; abuse, neglect, mental illness trauma and more.

While this may seem an appropriate conclusion to some, it is clear that it is necessary to identify not only why people use drugs but particularly why other people do not use drugs and what is the difference?

“I have spent many years in the alcohol tobacco and other drug sector and I have also met a lot of people over the years who have experienced trauma, abuse and neglect who don’t use drugs.

THWEST COMMUNITIES SOLUTION

This has led me to spend the last ten years looking at what non drug users have going on in their lives that is different to drug users.

The answer that kept coming up again and again was in stronger social and emotional competencies�, says Robert Waterman, CEO of Rural Health Tasmania Inc. There will always be people ready to exploit young and vulnerable people for personal gain, like manufacturers and suppliers of methamphetamines, but what if we could protect them?

What if we built the social and emotional capacities, provided education and supported the wisdom that would allow them to identify that drugs are not a solution to their problems?

What if communities have awareness of and access to better solutions

available to them that will provide sustainable and far healthier outcomes?

What if families could be helped to promote stronger values, selfesteem and resilience; the ability to better regulate emotions and rational thought?

If families could build ambition, confidence, independence, empathy and honesty in their children, would not these things help them reach their potential?

RUSH

and although a vitally needed service, it is not always effective.

Prevention, promotion, early intervention hand in hand with education can help people avoid years of enormously costly substance abuse and mental illness.

Rural Health Tasmania has commenced promotion, prevention, education and early intervention programs starting across Circular Head and North West Tasmania.

Importantly, communities should understand what can happen if they do not have an ample supply of these skills with social and emotional competencies. Promotion, prevention and early intervention are keys.

For like more information on the upcoming forums and workshops and how to build stronger protective social and emotional competencies for yourself and your children, contact Rural Health Tasmania on (03) 6452 1266

Treatment and recovery services help people, but often only after many years of the pain and suffering of addiction

Comment from Robert Waterman, Chief Executive Officer, Rural Health Tasmania Inc. PAGE 5

RUSH

DILEMMAS IN TACKLING ICE USAGE IN TASMANIA “I often consider if we will ever see an end to this problem if we don’t start looking for better options.”

It is no secret that the drug Methamphetamine “Ice” has received plenty of exposure in the media of late and it has highlighted how communities have struggled to come to terms with this devastating drug.

Increased demand for counselling across the ATOD (Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs) sector right across Australia is commonly reported.

Police, councils, politicians, families and communities are left looking for answers in how to protect their families and communities from this extremely addictive and harmful drug.

Parents and families suffer as they watch their child or siblings physical and mental health and relationships deteriorate.

I regularly hear people in the community say “the police need to stamp out the supply of this drug” This may be easier said than done although the police do seem to be making progress and getting better at seizing larger quantities of the drug. But whose responsibility is it and how do we move forward? A recent review of PAGE6

drug and alcohol services in Tasmania showed a severe lack of treatment services in the North West Coast with Circular Head and West Coast severely affected. It is not that Circular Head or West Coast has a larger Methamphetamine “Ice” problem than other rural communities it is simply a the lack of drug and alcohol services in the area makes treatment more difficult.

For many years I have pondered the questions “how do we truly make a difference?” and “how can we provide our communities with a lasting answer that is seriously effective in reducing the harms associated with drug and alcohol abuse, problem gambling and other addictive behaviour.

The answer is simple enough, “prevention promotion, education and early intervention” If we can stop people wanting to use illicit drugs by supporting those at risk and intervening early enough in their life, then surely that is better than watching them suffer through 30 plus years of substance abuse.

For me the alternative of simply providing treatment and recovery services knowing that as one person stops using drugs another two people have started using is just beyond consideration.

I often consider if we will ever see an end to this problem if we don’t start looking for better options.

Worse still, are we going to see an ever increasing number of people turning to drugs if we don’t change the way we provide services and start supporting our communities through prevention, promotion, early intervention and education?

The biggest issue seems to be getting these services and programs on the ground and coming to an agreement as a nation that we need them and must implement them now, not next year or when we have a budget surplus.

Article by Robert Waterman, Chief Executive Officer, Rural Health Tasmania Inc.

RUSH

‘We’ve got your back’ Hobart waterfront is a fun place and especially Friday and Saturday nights the entertainment zone is really buzzing. Physical and emotional vulnerability are downsides of a great night out, especially after a few too many drinks.

For anyone worried about their personal safety; perhaps separated from mates, missed the last bus or just feeling blurry, The Salvation Army ‘Street Team’ has ‘got your back’.

“Reducing risk around the entertainment precinct helps everyone enjoy their night out.”

Armed with lollies, bottled water and thongs, the teams provide practical assistance to restaurant, pub and club patrons on the waterfront late each Friday and Saturday night.

The teams also watch out for people’s personal safety by providing a ‘chill out safe space’, assistance to reach a secure taxi rank or a safe ride home.

“Even experienced partygoers are vulnerable when intoxicated. Reducing risk around the entertainment precinct helps everyone enjoy their night out,” says Grant Herring, the Manager for The Salvation Army Alcohol and Other Drug services in Tasmania.

Mr Herring says this Salvos program has been successful in both Melbourne and Perth and expects it will achieve the same impact in Hobart. “The ’Street Team’ has been trialled in the Salamanca area since December and has been warmly received by patrons and venue operators” he adds. “This is a great collaborative effort between The Salvation Army, Tasmania Police and the Hobart City Council.”

The group of dedicated ‘Street Team’ volunteers wear fluorescent branded jackets and can be easily recognised.

The program is about young people positively engaging with other young people, assisting in reuniting them

with their friends and getting them home safely. A Street Team ‘Coffee Cart’ is there near the Esplanade taxi rank, giving free lattes and cappuccinos to cabbies, Police and volunteers as well as to those who just need a boost.

This encourages drivers and patrons to use the cab rank, as opposed to hailing taxis in undesignated, less safe areas.

Lord Mayor of Hobart Alderman Sue Hickey says “this effort combines essential resources to improve public safety in Hobart’s busy Salamanca entertainment district.”

Tasmania Police Hobart Division Inspector David Plumpton said the Street Team forms part of the Safer Hobart Community Partnership.

“By working together as a community we can enhance safety and the perception of safety for our city,” he said.

Article by Grant Herring, Manager, Alcohol, Other Drugs & Corrections, The Salvation Army

CONTACT DETAILS: Guy Stainsby, Street Team Project Officer The Salvation Army Bridge Centre Tel (03) 6278 8140 www.bridgetasmania.org.au REFERENCES: Check out Melbourne Street Team the video clip: http://youtube.com/ watch?v=B3RWeOSemRs PAGE7

RUSH

MY JOURNEY INTO P

“being on the methadone program means you are not living in constant stress, worrying how you will get your next fix or experiencing regular withdrawals.”

“I’ve been caught in the tangled knots of the opiate ropes for twenty years.

It started with heroin in Melbourne in my mid twenties. It was easier to score than marijuana, and almost the same price.

For more than six months I only used once every few weeks for pain relief.

But within a year I had an insatiable habit that dominated every aspect of my life. I managed to hold down a good job for a while because it involved me being out of the office for much of the day and I had the freedom to score the drugs I needed and avoid my colleagues while I was completely off my face.

But eventually I became incapable of doing my job and lost it. My partner was using and lost his job too, so suddenly we had no income and a drug habit costing us nearly $500 a day. I tried inpatient detox, but the ready availability of heroin always lured me back.

I left Melbourne, all my friends and family, and went somewhere so PAGE 8

isolated that hard drugs might as well been something that happened in a different universe. The withdrawal was bad, but I expected that; the surprising aspect was that in a couple of weeks I was starting to feel much better. I knew I couldn’t return to Melbourne, the psychological baggage was going to be an ever present vulnerability.

So I moved to Hobart where I had no drug connections. By the time of the birth of my child I had been clean for more than two years and I was feeling better about myself and my pain issues seemed under control. But I had an emergency caesarian birth that had complications that were ongoing and incredibly painful. So my doctor suggested I go on strong morphine tablets. I didn’t want to go back to opiates. But nothing else was helping.

I had several more major operations and my pain issues got gradually worse.

But I was kept on the same dosage of morphine for nearly ten years. It just wasn’t stopping the pain or withdrawal symptoms. I would keep giving my doctor excuses as to why I needed the tablets earlier. That resulted in having

to pick up the tablets daily from the chemist and buying extra ones on the black market.

Some people suggested I go onto methadone, but I resisted the idea because of the stories I’d heard that people on methadone were often treated with contempt, especially by hospital staff, and not given sufficient pain relief. Also I’d heard that few doctors wanted to prescribe it nor pharmacies dispense it. I had several operations on the horizon and could not face major surgery without adequate paid relief.

In the end my hand was forced when, out of desperation I convinced my chemist I was allowed more tablets than I really was. The next thing I knew I had the drug squad searching my house (they thought I was selling them). I was cut off the tablets and, without money to buy anything on the black market, went through cold turkey hell.

Fortunately, the pharmacotherapy team agreed to see me quickly and I was being dosed within a week. I found

PHARMACOTHERAPY

out later that many people have to wait for months to get on the program. But the ‘slowly, slowly’ approach to finding an adequate maintenance dose meant it took many weeks before I started to feel okay. I can’t help wonder whether the dosing rate couldn’t be increased more quickly depending on individual circumstances.

I was also lucky to be released from daily dosing at St Johns after only a month and sent to one of the small number of doctors who can prescribe methadone. I know now that there are a lot people who have been dosed at St Johns for years because they haven’t been deemed ‘stable’ enough for dosing at a community pharmacy.

I’ve been on methadone for many years. And not waking up every day at 3 am in extreme discomfort from morphine withdrawal is very positive.

But methadone and the attached restrictions have caused me serious problems.

Firstly, I gained a lot weight immediately. I’m not on a high dose yet I feel mentally dulled and it takes

a supreme effort to motivate myself to do anything or even to just think about it.

Secondly, I always wanted to get off any form of opiate as soon as my pain issues allowed. But at no time during the induction was I told about the difficulties people have getting off methadone. Withdrawals effects can last more than a year. Some people have told me it was much harder to withdraw from than from heroin.

Lastly, being on the methadone program means you are not living in constant stress, worrying how you will get your next fix or experiencing regular withdrawals. But there is good reason why people describe it as ‘methadone manacles’. The restriction on takeaway doses means you are unable to live your life with any spontaneity or freedom. Just to be able to go away for a few days is virtually impossible.

And the red tape involved in arranging dosing at an interstate chemist due to unforeseen circumstances including emergencies is incredibly difficult.

RUSH

were the answer to all my problems.

Now I want to be free of them. It’s not going to be easy, but I keep dreaming of a life without them.”

Article written by Sarah, a Tasmanian drug user (name changed to maintain confidentiality).

Editors Comment: Many thanks to Sarah for sharing her personal story and journey with us. Anyone wishing to communicate with or ask Sarah questions regarding her story and experiences should email or contact the editor on 0405 996 908 or drbrianmorris@hotmail.com

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: The Salvation Army Bridge Centre Tel (03) 6278 8140 www.bridgetasmania.org.au

Once upon a time I thought Opiates PAGE 9

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day.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

COPING WITH ICE

WITH ICE

COPING WITH ICE

you say.

It can take seve

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regularly use ice may start to

• “What don’t you like?”

• “Where does

ral days to ‘come down’ that leave you?”

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People

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RUSH

COPING WITH ICE A GUIDE FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Having a family member or friend who uses ice (crystal methamphetamine) can be stressful and worrying. It’s normal to feel helpless, frustrated, anxious and upset. But you are not alone and help is available. This brochure provides some information and advice to help you. You can find more information and support through the services listed on the following page.

UNDERSTANDING THE EFFECTS Drugs can affect people differently, but some of the effects of ice can include: • Feelings of pleasure and confidence • Increased alertness and energy • Repetition of simple actions like itching and scratching • Enlarged pupils and dry mouth • Teeth grinding and excessive sweating • Fast heart rate and breathing • Reduced appetite • Feelings of paranoia or anxiety • Agitation or aggressive behaviour It can take several days to ‘come down’ from using ice. The following effects may be experienced during this time: • Difficultly sleeping and exhaustion • Headaches, dizziness and blurred vision • Paranoia, hallucinations and confusion • Irritability and feeling ‘down’

WHAT YOU CAN DO LISTEN If your family member or friend wants to tell you something about their situation, listen carefully without getting annoyed or upset. Let them speak without interruption. After they have finished speaking, repeat back to them what you have heard and understood so they can explain any misunderstandings.

Don’t try to solve their problem. Real, longterm change will only happen when they take responsibility for their actions and deal with the consequences.

ENCOURAGE CHANGE A person using ice needs to be ready to change before they can enter the recovery process. But you can help promote change by asking calm, respectful questions such as: • “What do you like about using ice?”

• “What don’t you like?”

• “Where does that leave you?”

Try to avoid pushing for answers. It’s okay to leave the questions hanging there.

Choose a time to talk when they are relaxed and aren’t affected by ice.

DEPENDENCE

SET BOUNDARIES

People who regularly use ice can quickly become dependent on it. They may feel they need to use ice to go about their normal activities like working, studying and socialising, or just to get through the day.

Communicate rules about what is and isn’t acceptable behaviour in your home and the consequences for breaking these rules. Work out your limits, be clear and direct, and stick to what you say.

Some people who regularly use ice may start to feel less enjoyment with everyday activities.

They can get stressed easily and their moods go up and down quite quickly. These changes can lead to longer term problems with anxiety and depression.

People may feel these effects for at least several weeks or months after they give up ice.

health.vic.gov.au/ice

r allowing us to reproduce this informative resource

HELP AND SUPPORT The Salvation Army, Tasmania The Bridge Program Hobart 03 6278 8140 Launceston 03 6331 6760 Burnie 03 6431 9124 www.bridgetasmania.org.au Family Drug Help 1300 660 068 DirectLine 1800 888 236 Australian Drug Foundation 1300 85 85 84 Counselling Online www.counsellingonline.org.au PAGE 11

RUSH SOUTH Advocacy Tasmania 6224 2240 or 1800 005 131 intake@advocacytasmania.org.au www.advocacytasmania.org.au Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs Council of Tasmania (ATDC) Tel: 03 6231 5002 Email: reception@atdc. org.au www.atdc.org.au Drug Education Network Tel: 03 6211 2350 admin@den.org.au www.den.org.au Alcohol and Drug Service (ADS) Alcohol & Drug Service Tel: 03 6230 7901 Inpatient Withdrawal Unit (Detoxification) Tel: 03 6230 7970 Pharmacotherapy Unit Tel: 03 6270 7972 Headspace Tel: 03 6231 2927 headspace@thelink.org.au Rural Alive & Well (RAW) Tel: 03 6259 3014 admin@rawtas.com.au The Salvation Army Bridge Centre Tel: 03 6278 8140 bridgetasmania@aus. salvationarmy.org www.bridgetasmania.org.au Antidiscrimination Commission Tel: 03 6233 4841 or 1300 305 062 antidiscrimination@ justice.tas.gov.au www.antidiscrimination.tas.gov.au TasCAHRD Tasmanian Council on AIDS, Hepatitis & Related Diseases including the Man2Man Program

PAGE 12

Tel: 03 6234 1242 or 1800 005 900 mail@tascahrd.org.au www.tascahrd.org.au and www.m2mtas.com

TASMANIAN AOD SERVI

The Link Youth Health Service Tel: 03 6231 2927 www.thelink.org.au S.H.E – Support, Help and Empowerment Tel: 03 6278 9090 admin@she.org.au www.she.org.au Youth Assist Sexual Health Doctor Thursday 2-5pm & Friday 11am-1pm Tel: 03 6233 8901 Youth Assist, Clarence ICC, Bayfield Street Mental Health Carers 6228 7448 (all hours) Salvation Army Recovery Church Fun and informative church service for those in recovery, their family and/or friends Every Wednesday from 7-8pm 180 Elizabeth St, Hobart Contact Leigh on 0407 586 262 Tasmanian Users Health Support League (TUHSL) Group run by consumers for consumers in addition to providing services & organisations with valuable & appropriate information on service delivery Tel: 0498 580 645 tuhsltaste@gmail.com Sexual Assault Support Service (SASS) 24hr Crisis Support Line: 03 6231 1817 Tel: 03 6231 1811 admin@sass.org.au www.sass.org.au

Court Mandated Diversion (CMD) Program Tel: 03 6216 4428 Web: www.magistratescourt.tas.gov.au/ divisions/criminal_and_ general/court_mandated_diversion Drug Education Network (DEN) Tel: 03 6211 2350 Web: www.den.org.au

Glenorchy Illicit Drug Service (GIDS) Freecall: 1800 243 232 Web: www.anglicaretas.org.au/DrugAlcoholServices/GIDS.aspx Hepatitis Prevention Program Freecall: 1800 243 232 Web: www.anglicaretas.org.au/DrugAlcoholServices/hepatitisprevention-program The Hobart Clinic Tel: 03 6247 9960 www.theHobartclinic.com.au Holyoake Tasmania Tel: 03 6224 1777 www.holyoake.com.au Kids in Focus Freecall: 1800 243 232 Web: www.anglicaretas.org.au/DrugAlcoholServices/KiF.aspx Live Free Tassie A residential drug treatment program designed for young men aged 16-30yrs Tel: 03 6288 1188 or 1800 033 595 www.livefreetassie.org.au Mental Health Services Statewide crisis service for mental health related issues 1800 332 388 (24hrs) Web: www.dhhs.tas. gov.au/mentalhealth/ about_us/mental_ health_services_south

Pulse Youth Health Tel: 03 6233 8900 Web: www.dhhs.tas. gov.au/service_information/young_people/ youth_health_services Royal Hobart Hospital Tel: 03 6222 8308 Web: www.dhhs.tas. gov.au/hospital/royalHobart-hospital Royal Hobart Hospital Specialist Prenatal Clinic Tel: 03 6222 8686 ARAFMI Tasmania Tel: 03 6228 7448 Web: http://depressionet.org.au/familyfriends/arafmi/arafmitasmania/ Aspire Tel: 03 6231 0635 www.aspire.org.au/Hobart Clare House Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Mental Health Helpline 1300 332 388

Eureka Club House Tel: 03 6278 9179 Web: www.colony47. com.au/mentalservices/ eureka-clubhouse.html Family Mental Health Support Services South Freecall: 1800 234 232 www.anglicare-tas.org. au/MentalHealth/FamilyMentalHealthSupportService.aspx Personal Helpers and Mentors (PHaMS) Freecall: 1800 234 232 Web: www.anglicaretas.org.au/MentalHealth/PHaMs.aspx Richmond Fellowship Provides rehabilitation & support to people over 18yrs through a 24hr residential recovery-focused program

for adults recovering from a serious mental illness.

Tel: 03 6228 3344 Web: www.rftas.org.au Migrant Resource Centre Tel: 03 6221 0999 Web: www.mrcHobart. org.au STATE WIDE OR NATIONAL Alcoholics Anonymous Australia Tel: 03 6234 8711 National AA Helpline: 1300 22 22 22 Web: www.aa.org.au Family Drug Support 1300 368 186 Web: www.fds.org.au Lifeline Tasmania For 24hr crisis support call 13 11 14 info@lifelinetasmania. com.au www.lifeline.org.au Sexual Health Service HOBART 03 6233 3557 DEVONPORT 03 6421 7759 BURNIE 03 6434 6315 LAINCESTON 03 6336 2216 FREECALL NUMBER – 1800 675 859 sexual.health@dhhs. tas.gov.au

The Maximising Recovery Panel Referral point to access community mental health services 6230 7549 (South) 6336 2196 (North/NW) Centacare Tasmania Counselling for Children and Family Support Program HOBART – 03 6278 1660 LTN – 03 6331 9253 BURNIE – 03 6431 8555

ICES & ORGANISATIONS Relationships Australia Tasmania Tel: 1300 364 277 ww.tas.relationships. org.au

Salvation Army Tasmania State-wide Alcohol & Drug Services and Family Support The Salvation Army in Tasmania offers a range of services to people of different ages with varying service needs.

Services are delivered out of different locations around the state.

The Bridge Program An alcohol & other drugs rehabilitation program that offers a number of different types of services, including residential rehabilitation and day programs (counselling, case management, group therapy), outreach and aftercare in the community, AOD chaplaincy and court & prison chaplaincy, and pre and postrelease services for offenders transitioning from prison to the community.

These services are delivered out of Bridge Program offices in Hobart, Launceston and Burnie, with rural and regional outreach available as well.

HOBART – 03 6278 8140 LAUNCESTON – 03 6331 6760 BURNIE – 03 6431 9124 www.bridgetasmania.org.au The Positive Lifestyle Program A life skills program which consists of ten sessions. It is designed to assist individuals to develop understanding in the following areas: self-

awareness, anger, stress, loneliness, grief and loss, creative problem solving, assertiveness, self-esteem, and goal setting.

CLARENCE 03 6244 4615 GLENORCHY 03 6228 6274 HOBART – 03 6231 5440 NEW NORFOLK – 6261 2353

Migrant Resource Centre – Multicultural Mental Health & Family Wellbeing HOBART – 03 6221 0999 LAUNCESTON – 03 6332 2211 DEVONPORT – 03 6423 5598 Launceston City Mission Missiondale - Recovery Centre 75 Leighlands Road, Evandale Tel: 03 6391 8013 Email: missiondale@ citymission.org.au Orana House – Accom/ Crisis Unit 156 George Town Road, Newnham Tel: 03 6326 6133 Email: orana@ citymission.org.au Serenity House 354 Preservation Drive, Sulphur Creek Tel: 03 6435 4654 Pathways Tasmania Inc. Operates 2 supported accommodation services. Launch Youth, which empowers youth without a place to call home, and Live Free Tassie, which helps young men live addiction free.

Tel: 03 6224 3090 info@pathwaystas.org.au

Tasmanian Aboriginal Health & Support Services Aboriginal Health Service LAUNCESTON 03 6331 6966 Flinders Island Aboriginal Assoc FLINDERS ISLAND 03 6359 3532 Mersey Leven Aboriginal Corporation EAST DEVONPORT 03 6427 9037 South East Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation CYGNET - 03 6295 0004 Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre HOBART - 03 6234 8311 Tasmanian Aboriginal Health Service BURNIE - 03 6431 3289

www.aa.org.au/findameeting/index.php

Mental Health Carers HOBART – 03 6228 7448 LTN - 03 6331 4486

Anglicare Tasmania Freecall: 1800 243 232 www.anglicare-tas.org.au

Lifeline Tel: 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au

Beyond Blue Tel: 1300 224 636 (web chat 4-10pm) www.beyondblue.org.au

Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) Tel: 1800 011 046 www.dva.gov.au/health/ vvcs Advocacy Tasmania Inc. Freecall: 1800 005 131 Tel: 03 6224 2240 Al-Anon Family Groups Southern TasmaniaHelpline: 1300 252 666 Tel: 03 6231 5178 www.al-anon.org/ australia Alcohol & Drug Service (ADS) Tel: 1300 139 641 Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs Council (ATDC) Tel: 03 6231 5002 www.atdc.org.au Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) South Tel: 03 6234 8711

Care Coordination Services Provided by Anglicare to assist people with multiple and complex needs.

Freecall: 1800 243 232 www.anglicare-tas.org. au/DrugAlcoholServices/Carecoordination. aspx

RUSH NEEDLE SYRINGE OUTLETS Anglicare 2 Terry Street, Glenorchy 6272 7892 Anglicare, Basement, 18 Watchorn St, Hobart 6213 3555 The Salvation Army, Launceston 111 Elizabeth Street, 6323 7500

Family Drug Support 24hr Helpline: 1300 368 186 www.fds.org.au

Youth & Family Focus Inc Devonport 81 Oldaker Street, 6423 6635

Quit Tasmania 03 6228 2921 www.quittas.org.au

Clarence Community Health Centre Suite 8/2 Bayfield Street, Rosny 6244 4195

Headspace Tel: 03 6231 2927 www.headspace.org.au Our Time Provides assistance to family members or friends supporting someone with mental illness or autism Freecall: 1800 243 232 Web: www.anglicaretas.org.au/MentalHealth/OurTime.aspx Break Even Gambling Service Help Line: 1800 858 858 www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/ gambling Narcotics Anonymous Tel: 1300 652 820 Web: www.na.org.au/ index.php/meetingsmenu/regional -arealists/178-Tasmania

Jordan River Services Inc, Bridgewater 6 Bowden Drive, 6263 4303 The Link Youth Health Service, Hobart 57 Liverpool Street, 6231 2927 SYRINGE VENDING MACHINES Paul Rossetto Pharmacy, Invermay Road, Invermay 6331 7224 Anglicare, Hobart Basement, 18 Watchorn St 6213 3555 Devonport Council Chambers 44 Best Street, 6424 0545

PAGE 13

RUSH

RECOVERY RECIPE

Public Health England (PHE) has an alcohol and other drug treatment system that is fundamentally connected with its recovery community. The PHE strategic leader Mark Gilman describes the pathway to recovery exceptionally well in three words; “Jobs, Homes, Friends.” Mark highlights the real value of building positive social networks; family and friends.

The necessity for a ‘safe haven;’ a place to call home, is clear. Having a job of course generates income to pay for rent, food, transport and more. With these three key elements in place, recovery can be all but guaranteed.

The current approach in the employment services system is really one dimensional and only seldom can the biopsychosocial issues which drive addictive behaviours be seen to be addressed. In a Recovery model where ‘jobs, homes, friends’ are inherent in ‘treatment’ plans, direct connections are made to employment opportunities; to housing and to family and other social networks.

There is gathering belief disconnection drives addiction.

PAGE 14

that

People have strong needs for connection with each other. If we cannot make personal connections, we will connect with anything that we can find, like alcohol or drugs.

Correspondent Johann Hari says: “the opposite of addiction is not sobriety; it is human connection.”

Positive outcomes of addictions treatment are really measured in a variety of domains; physical health, offending behaviours, community engagement, alcohol and drug use, accommodation, family and relationships, accommodation, meaningful use of time and economic stability. These issues are clearly identified in the simple ‘Jobs, Homes, Friends’ recipe.

Connection and activity repairs the perception and effect of problematic alcohol and other drug use and changes the way we think and talk about AOD treatment, rehabilitation and recovery.

This may be easier than we think.

Article by Grant Herring, Manager (Alcohol, Other Drugs & Corrections), The Salvation Army Tasmania Division

The Alcohol, Alcohol, Tobacco Tobacco & & Other Other Drugs Drugs The Council of of Tasmania Tasmania (ATDC) (ATDC) stakestakeCouncil holder surveys surveys have have identified identified the the holder current policy policy priorities priorities of of members. members. current These include include promotion, promotion, prevenprevenThese tion and and early early intervention, intervention, justice justice tion reinvestment and and more. more. StrategiStrategireinvestment cally, partnerships partnerships and and collaboration, collaboration, cally, advocacy, representation representation and and sector sector advocacy, capacity building building are are highest highest on on memmemcapacity ber agendas. agendas. ber Inorder orderthat thatthese thesestrategic strategicobjectives objectives In can be be met met and and priorities priorities achieved, achieved, can members have have aa real real responsibility responsibility members to participate; participate; to to share share their their own own sucsucto cesses and and shortcomings shortcomings through through the the cesses ATDC. Particularly Particularly at at this this time time where where ATDC. financial issues issues potentially potentially constrain constrain financial service delivery, delivery, we we should should as as aa memmemservice bership group group be be pooling pooling our our collabcollabbership orative resources resources and and getting getting excited excited orative about working working together together to to achieve achieve about our mutually mutually agreed agreed objectives. objectives. our ATDC Board Board members members bring bring signifisignifiATDC cant expertise expertise and and understanding understanding to to cant the space space in in which which the the ATOD ATOD sector sector the works. works.

The staff staff team team are are highly highly skilled skilled and and The effective representatives. representatives. To To maximise maximise effective these and and other other great great resources; resources; to to these maximise the the value value for for money money spent spent maximise on membership membership fees, fees, active active participaparticipaon

RUSH

CONSUMER? PARTICIPANT?

THE TASMANIAN RESIDENTIAL RECOVERY NETWORK

tion and contribution to debate are the only requisites.

Inter-agency collaboration can facilitate more effective recovery.

Achievement of the things we all want; those already on our sector priority list, is not only the challenge for Staff and the Board but for all members. Let’s get active!Should you choose to make a real difference, contact any Board member from the list here through ATDC on (03) 6231 5002 or the website www.atdc.org.au

The ‘wrap around’ supports needed for individuals and families generally come from a variety of sources.

Ros Atkinson (Youth, Family & Community Connections), Stephen Brown (Launceston City Mission), Jules Carroll (Relationships Australia), Sarah Charlton (Holyoake), Wendy Groot (Mental Health Carers Tas), Grant Herring (The Salvation Army), Dr David Jackson, Tania Joughin (The Link Youth Health Service), Stuart Smith (Pathways Tasmania) and Sean King (Consumer Representative).

Article provided by ATDC Board CONTACT DETAILS: ATDC Tel (03) 6231 5002 Email reception@atdc.org.au Web www.atdc.org.au

It is clear that recovery for anyone suffering effects of addictions or substance misuse, that the shorter the pathway between service providers, the easier a participant’s recovery goals are achieved.

The Tasmanian Residential Recovery Network comprises key service providers; Pathways Tasmania, Launceston City Mission and The Salvation Army.

The Residential Recovery centres operated by these non-government organisations at ‘Missiondale,’ the Hobart Bridge Centre and at Ellendale have developed a memorandum of understanding which gives structural strength to the existing informal, collaborative arrangements developed between them over many years.

The differences in the service models delivered in the three centres can be considered choice options

for participants, where the most appropriate treatment or recovery plans can be selected based on individual needs.

The organisations however, can be better linked in the collaborative model to provide state-wide care, for instance in ‘aftercare,’ following treatment.

Recovery from addictions or substance misuse effects is not achieved by completion of a treatment plan alone.

Recovery is a longer term task.

The Tasmanian Residential Recovery Network is framed to support participants for the ‘long haul’ of their engagement with simpler, more efficient access.

Article by Grant Herring, Manager (Alcohol, Other Drugs & Corrections), The Salvation Army Tasmania Division

“Inter-agency collaboration can facilitate more effective recovery.”

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‘What they’ve been sa “a biased view where people who use drugs are automatically assumed to be doing the wrong thing in regards to their treatment.”

Advocacy Tasmania Inc. began providing individual advocacy and consumer engagement programs for ATOD service users in 2010.

Over this time consumers have raised concerns with us about the direction that pharmacotherapy policy and practice was taking in Tasmania.

When the Tasmanian Opioid Pharmacotherapy Program Policy and Clinical Practice Standards (TOPP) was published by the Alcohol and Drug Service (ADS) in May 2012, the strength and volume of concerned feedback received from our clients and consumers at large increased.

Whilst Advocacy Tasmania Inc. is not a drug user organisation and can not speak on behalf of people who use drugs, the feedback we were getting about the impact was significant so we decided to put together our own position paper. The paper is based on feedback we have received from consumers and service providers as well as our own mission and values PAGE 16

relating to the promotion of Human Rights.

The paper was titled ‘The Unintended Consequences of Pharmacotherapy Policy in Tasmania’ and publically released at the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs Council conference in May 2014.

The paper’s main argument was that, in broad terms, the effectiveness of the TOPP had been decreased because: 1) Of the negative language used in the TOPP; 2) Ambiguity concerning its authority; and 3) A lack of meaningful consumer input into the TOPP’s development.

In relation to the negative language of the TOPP, the paper asserted that the TOPP’s focus on the risk and the potential harms of treatment, without acknowledging the many ways in which people who use drugs continue to

contribute positively to society, created a biased view where people who use drugs are automatically assumed to be doing the wrong thing in regards to their treatment.

The paper noted that the policies of most other states focused on balancing risk with the benefits of increased functioning (for both individuals and the community); and that accordingly take away doses, for example, were not seen as a privilege but rather a reinforcement of positive engagement and a recognition of increased protective factors.

The TOPP on the other hand, suggested that flexible program delivery (in relation to takeaway doses) was likely to lead to treatment failure.

Another key difference was the way poly drug use is discussed in the policy.

Other state policies acknowledged that poly drug use was not automatically in and of itself a risk that justified increased restrictions or termination of treatment and needed to be seen

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aying about the TOPP’

as part of a bigger picture for effective treatment. The TOPP however directed that any poly drug use, irrespective of the context, ought to result in exclusion from treatment due to associated risk.

The language becomes even more important when looking at how much authority the policy actually has.

Despite verbal assurances from the ADS that the TOPP was meant as a set of guidelines only, the language of the TOPP does not reflect that.

For example, the constant use in the TOPP of the term ‘must’ rather than ‘should’ leaves the impression that the directions which follow in the 264 page manual leave no room for discretion.

The key message from the paper is that the policy could be significantly strengthened if meaningful input from people who use drugs had been sought during its development.

Whilst there was some consultation it was not considered robust by consumers or the wider sector and

there was little to no apparent change from the feedback that was provided.

The paper further outlined that Advocacy Tasmania conducted a survey after the TOPP launch and that, whilst it must be acknowledged only a small number of people participated in the survey, some survey participants stated that they felt the TOPP had increased risk taking behavior (i.e. poly drug use and illicit use) due to changed prescribing practices or take away dose restrictions.

They also reported a number of other negative impacts which are outlined in the paper.

The paper was very clear that Advocacy Tasmania is not suggesting we have the answers to making the policy more effective. Rather, that the key to an effective policy is to involve all of the key stakeholders and people who use drugs have been the missing stakeholder in this policy development to date. The paper made five recommendations designed to ensure meaningful input

of people who use drugs will be sought for all further pharmacotherapy program developments, and especially in relation to the review of the TOPP which was due to take place this year but which now looks more likely to take place in the second half of next year.

We have been advised by ADS that the newly formed Expert Treatment Working Group will be looking at the recommendations in more detail.

And we are currently circulating a communique/petition seeking formal support for the five recommendations.

Article by Kate Fish, Program Manager, Mental Health & ATOD Advocacy, Advocacy Tasmania

REFERENCES: The paper can be accessed on the Advocacy Tasmania Inc. website at http://www. advocacytasmania.org.au/ p u b l i cat i o n s /AT I _ TO P P _ Position_Paper.pdf PAGE 17

RUSH Everyone has a picture of what drug addiction is.

A doctor said on Melbourne radio station 3AW recently that if you suffer the consequences of addiction, you are an arsehole.

Further, that you should be treated for what you are - a criminal and never as a victim of disease. http://www.3aw.com.au/news/drmichael-keane-tells-tom-elliott-thataustralia-has-wrong-approach-todrug-addiction-20150210-13b31o. html That is a view of addiction that was quite common in the 1930s. Since then, and especially in the last 30 years, science has discovered much more about how the brain works and as a result the consensus of scientists and workers in the field is that addiction is most certainly a disease of the brain.

Thus a typical, and probably the most accepted, definition of addiction currently held is the one written in 2010 by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM.) In its short version it says: Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry.

Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.

Addiction is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response.

Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and PAGE18

WHAT IS ‘ADDICT remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death. http://www.asam.org/forthe-public/definition-of-addiction ASAMS’s longer definition includes the reasons why addiction is regarded as a brain disease which will be touched on shortly.

Before doing so, attention needs to be given to the word drug and substance. A drug is a substance that has a biological effect on the body, and includes medicines, recreational drugs and drugs of addiction.

“Like all people who suffer a disease, they have a right to treatment.”

So addiction to a drug is addiction to a substance that has a biological effect on the body. But that does not mean that biological effects on the body are addictions, a mistake that sometimes occurs in the field of addiction treatment.

Thus tolerance and withdrawal syndromes are biological effects of certain substances but do not necessarily mean addiction.

Unfortunately, in an attempt to move away from the word “addiction”, the term “dependence syndrome” was introduced, forgetting that the terms “physical dependence” and “psychological dependence” already

existed. This has resulted in all three being abbreviated to “dependence” with consequential misdiagnosis.

For the brain disease that is addiction to occur, several factors need to be present, and these are also the factors that confirm addiction as a disease.

Genetic predisposition. Genes cause more than 50% of the likelihood of development of addiction. And the way genes react to the environment further increases the likelihood.

Conversely, certain genetic states can prevent addiction, for example, many people are genetically unable to produce an enzyme to metabolize alcohol fully such that exposure to alcohol makes them so sick they are unable ever to become addicted to alcohol.

The reward pathways of the brain have defects so drugs that make the reward pathways function better are sought out.

The drugs that do this work biologically by increasing dopamine levels in these areas of the brain.

The most common of these drugs are caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, psychostimulants and opioids.

These drugs tend to cause further brain changes which impair control over their further use.

Effects of addiction, if not treated, are a compulsive use of the drug in question; inability to consistently abstain from it; and craving.

Because of the disease of the brain these manifestations are not voluntary – they are beyond the control of the patient.

Non-addictive drug use. It should be pointed out that individuals can and do use the drugs that increase

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TION TO DRUGS’? dopamine levels in the brain reward pathways, but do not become addicted.

This is simply because their brain is not predisposed to addiction. Thus 95% of our population has tried alcohol but 95% are not addicted to it.

Similarly people can use the other drugs recreationally and in certain circumstances: up to 50% of American soldiers used heroin in Vietnam, but on return to the USA only those that had been using prior to service in Vietnam continued (about 0.5%).

So use of a drug is not the same as addiction – addiction is a brain disease and not everyone has it.

But, if they do have it: They are a patient (“one who suffers” – nothing hedonistic in suffering this disease).

They are not arseholes or morally deficient.

Most are not criminals – alcohol and nicotine addiction outweigh all the other addictions and these drugs are legal.

Like all people who suffer a disease, they have a right to treatment.

And treatment works.

Article by Dr David Jackson, Specialist in Addiction Medicine from Hobart, Tasmania

REFERENCES: Further reading: www.medicalnewstoday. com/info/addiction PAGE19

RUSH Established in 1852, the Hobart City Mission was the first City Mission in Australia and is the third oldest Mission in the world.

The Mission operates many programs, which in addition to addressing immediate needs, are designed to provide life skills, build community involvement and build positive relationships and experiences.

The Mission takes a holistic approach to its work and offers assistance to vulnerable members of the Southern Tasmanian community by providing emotional, physical and financial support and guidance.

The programs aim to empower people and enable them to participate in community life with a sense of dignity, purpose and self reliance.

Hobart City Mission provides a wide range of services to a diverse group of clients and has been doing so for many years. The services provided by the Mission are predominantly based on a case management model with an emphasis on the client and their needs.

The way we work with clients creates the opportunity for them to access multiple services within one organisation without having to repeat their story to a succession of different workers.

Hobart City Mission’s services include:

Disability Support Services The Mission has been an accredited service provider for NDIA. Individual Support Packages (ISP) provides assistance with, but not limited to, coordination and transition planning, personal care and support to complete everyday tasks, support to participate in a leisure activity PAGE 20

PROFILE - HOBAR or pre-vocational courses, respite, equipment, home modifications, community access (day support) and/ or, other services or goods required by a person to meet disability related need.

Group Homes is a community integration program providing supported accommodation for residents with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Community Access operates I day a week providing day support only for our residents, the program is to support off site activities to promote and provide a wide range of flexible leisure and recreational services for people with intellectual disabilities.

Community Support Services Emergency Relief is provided through our Community Support Officers in Hobart & Moonah to assist those in crisis and need by providing food packs, food vouchers, Aurora vouchers and Telstra vouchers; Individual Vulnerable Groups provides targeted case management assistance to Emergency Relief clients who require additional support; Personal & Family Counseling is a free, professional counseling service provided by an accredited counselor for those in need.

Family Support & Accommodation Services Small Steps is a program that provides supported accommodation for young mums and their infants. In addition to 24 hr support the program also provides access to onsite education including child development, parenting, and nutrition.

Housing Connect is a one-stop shop

for help with public and community housing, private rental assistance and emergency accommodation and support services.

Mountainview offers safe and secure low support accommodation for older single men at risk of homelessness; Integrated Family Support Services offers specialist in-home family support and practical parenting assistance to families. This service is accessed via the Government’s Gateway Service.

Outreach and Development Pastoral Care is provided by Mission staff at external organisations, including the Tasmanian Prison Service; Children’s Camps offer kids whose families have faced difficult times a chance to take a break from the hardships of their lives and enjoy new, positive experiences; Ambulance Buddies is a support service for inpatients of the New Norfolk District Hospital.

Retail Outlets Opportunity Shops offering low cost clothing, furniture and household items.

While Hobart City Mission is known for its quality of care and high standard of service for all service users, it also recognises that people are individuals, with their own thoughts, desires and passions and provides them the opportunity to express those in a manner that does not impinge on the individual rights of others.

Article by Michelle Folder, Manager Business Development, Hobart City Mission

RT CITY MISSION

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“to provide life skills, build community involvement and build positive relationships and experiences”

CONTACT DETAILS: Hobart City Mission 50 Barrack St, Hobart, TAS 03 6215 4200

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EVERYONE IS “If we are able to communicate our uniqueness to a potential employer, setting ourselves apart from the other applicants, we increase our chances of finding work.”

Being a job-seeker can lead to feelings of pressure, resulting from the awareness of the mounting expectations of others to secure work.

There is an expectation in our society that all able members seek employment, and obviously we need money to survive. However, finding work is not always so straight-forward; there are certain barriers which can make it difficult to break the circle of unemployment and the reality is, there are currently not enough jobs available.

Why Do We Have to Work?

It has been said that ‘money makes the world go round’. When we have a closer look at what drives us to work and earn a living we see that there is more to it than this; there is a primal force in us that eagerly wants

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to create and to learn more, this may have evolved because humans have had to learn how to survive under extreme circumstances. Our hunter-gatherer ancestors inhabited and adapted to the most extreme environments on earth. Humans had to stick together and learn to adapt; this is how we survived.

A Fundamental Need What happens if you can’t work?

We are denied our fundamental need to learn, to get rewarded and to socialise with others in a mutually beneficial, cooperative environment.

Evidence suggests that the loss of this fundamental need can make us vulnerable, we lose confidence and we begin to experience mental and physical illness as a result. Repeated rejection of job applications leads to a drop in self-esteem and and confidence and eventually, the motivation to continue searching.

Don’t Give Up We all learn certain skills in our life, every individual has their own skill set and unique personality that makes them perfect for a particular job or career path. If we are able to communicate our uniqueness to a potential employer, setting ourselves apart from the other applicants, we increase our chances of finding work.

Many jobs are never advertised in traditional sources, looking to our personal network will help us in our job search.

“Everyone is a job-seeker or a potential job-seeker.”

‘Standing Out’ in the Job Market Everyone is a job-seeker or a potential job-seeker. Even people who are employed are applying for other jobs.

Everyone is vulnerable to losing their

A JOB SEEKER jobs under certain circumstances.

Businesses are contending for work on a daily basis.

the ordinary font styles and layouts.

But that is not how we make ourselves stand out.

One way that businesses secure work is by using the principles of marketing and advertising. They create advertisements in order to sell their products or service. Similar principles can help job-seekers to secure employment.

Applying marketing and advertising principles will help us to stand out.

It will help us to identify our real potential employer and to find the most effective way to communicate with them and most importantly this approach enables job-seekers to highlight their personality, their uniqueness and their skill set.

If we apply for a job we will be confronted with a competition.

Sometimes there are hundreds of applications for one job. Be aware, many jobs are offered and secured through the ‘hidden job market’, that is, through personal networks and word of mouth.

There are many different ways we can secure employment but we must think beyond the standard cover letter and a CV; standard applications end up on a big pile on the employee’s desk, with little to set them apart.

Unfortunately official sites still preach that we should avoid using colour in our resumes; that we should stick to

The Right Tools Effective marketing requires an understanding of the target market and the potential to find work often lies in the hidden job market. We should consider incorporating our personal network into our job search; talking to people we know and to their connections is an important step when looking for work.

If and when we do apply for advertised positions we have to make sure to stand out from the rest; this can involve the use of colour and images within our application where

RUSH appropriate. Don’t just sell your skill set, sell your personality.

We can also use different communication tools in order to communicate and present ourselves in the job market, though this must be done wisely. An online presence or a business card will help us to differentiate ourselves from others and tap into the hidden job market.

Don’t be afraid to try out different approaches when applying for a job. And if you get invited to a job interview, don’t forget that you are the one who could solve their problem.

The most important thing is not to be ashamed of being a job-seeker; remember everyone is a job-seeker.

Article by Donovan John Szypura, Founder of Matchbox Works Matchbox Works offers successful training courses and develops programs in order to empower jobseekers to secure employment. www. matchbox.works

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2015 season

HOBART REPERTORY THEATRE SOCIETY presents

A Murder is Announced 1 - 16 May Jane Eyre 19 June – 4 July

One of the world’s most beloved novels, Jane Eyre is a startlingly modern blend of passion, romance, mystery and suspense.

On Our Selection 14 – 29 August

A riotous celebration of who we are, where we have come from and what fun we have had along the way.

OneFest 4 – 5 September

Forbidden Broadway 23 October to 7 November Gut-bustingly funny.