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Legislative Council - Fifty-First Parliament, Second Session (51-2)
2008-05-08 Daily Xml
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YOUTH, RESIDENTIAL DRUG REHABILITATION PROGRAMS

In reply to the Hon. A. BRESSINGTON (31 October 2006).

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister Assisting the Minister for Health) (00:00): I am advised that:

1. Long-term residential places or beds for the rehabilitation of young people with drug use issues is complex as some may also be homeless, have mental health issues, or be unwilling to enter mainstream residential services.

The Government provides and funds a range of services that support young people in receiving treatment in a residential setting:

Mission Australia runs the Hindmarsh Centre in Hindmarsh, which provides shelter, support and non-medical detoxification for young people aged between 12 and 24 years who are homeless or are in danger of becoming homeless. The Centre can also arrange other services such as medical consultations, counselling, assistance in dealing with other agencies and providing referrals. The Centre does not encourage long-term stays for clients as this may cause clients to maintain their drug use patterns to obtain accommodation.

When it is necessary, the Children, Youth and Women's Health Service can provide a planned admission to their inpatient adolescent unit for young people up to the age of 16 years if a medical detoxification is required. All clients aged over 16 years are referred to Drug and Alcohol Services SA (DASSA) clinics.

The Woolshed provides a drug-free environment and offers a structured program to develop living, work and interpersonal skills through education, counselling, group work and recreational activities. It has associated halfway houses in Adelaide and links with self-help groups. The Woolshed takes people from 16 years old.

If a problem other than substance misuse is identified in relation to a young person (eg accommodation needs or financial problems), DASSA staff refer them to a range of services with a youth focus, including Second Story and Street Link. Some community health centres also provide specific support for young people in building self-esteem and for young pregnant mothers. Any referral will depend on the young person's particular issues and their willingness to receive assistance.

DASSA has staff who are qualified to undertake family therapy when appropriate. DASSA's clinical staff are always mindful of the importance of the family unit.

In addition, referrals can be made to CAMHS (who have a family therapy unit), or family support groups such as Family Matter and Family Drug Support.

2. For young people between the ages of 13 and 17:

Mission Australia's Hindmarsh Centre has seven beds;

The Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service's Boyland Ward has 12 beds; and

The Children, Youth and Women's Health Service's Adolescent Ward has 12 beds.

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