Gender shapes substance use in relation to the initiation, access, consumption, experiences of dependence, AOD-related risk behaviours and AOD treatment outcomes (NADA, 2013) however, there is a paucity of gender-responsive service options in the community-based Victorian treatment system. TaskForce Community Agency, a provider of AOD services across the South East of Melbourne, has been delivering a project supporting vulnerable girls and women who fall through service gaps. An organisational initiative is using the learnings of this model to improve organisational responsiveness to girls and women accessing support. This presentation will take the audience on a journey to understand how they and their organisation currently support girls and women, highlighting evidence to improve responses and provide practical recommendations that can be implemented to improve access and outcomes for girls and women presenting with AOD needs.
Presenters
Sarah Fitzpatrick, Masters of Occupational Therapy, Student Monash University
Sarah is a final year Monash University Masters of Occupational Therapy student passionate about improving life outcomes for our most vulnerable.
Amy McKernan, Masters of Occupational Therapy Student, Monash University
Amy is a final year Monash University Masters of Occupational Therapy student passionate about improving life outcomes for our most vulnerable.