News

Until relatively recently, comparatively little attention had been directed to the issue of co-occurring AOD use and gambling. A new suite of resources has been produced to address this issue.

Slots and Shots is a much needed suite of gambling resources for alcohol and other drug (AOD) workers. It contains:

• A report that explores the relationship between AOD use and gambling and how the AOD sector can better identify and support clients who have co-occurring gambling issues.
• A tri-fold handout for clients to assist them understand problem gambling and information about where to get help
• A waiting room poster promoting the resources and encouraging clients to seek further advice.
• A wallet sized quick reference guide for clinicians.

Slots and shots was developed to help AOD workers address the complex problems often experienced by their clients, and highlights the similarities between problem gambling and substance misuse.

Many AOD clients present with co-occurring substance and gambling problems. For every client with a serious gambling problem, 5 to 10 other people are affected. As such, there is a pressing need to strengthen AOD workers’ skills and understanding of gambling, so they may respond appropriately to client needs and improve client outcomes.

This resource was produced in collaboration with Odyssey House, Victoria and the South Australian Network of Drug and Alcohol Services (SANDAS).

The resource was launched by the Victorian Gambling Research Foundation on 19 November 2015.

View the resources here: http://nceta.flinders.edu.au/?cID=647.