Walking a Tightrope

July 2014

Alcohol and other drug misuse and family and domestic violence problems are of major concern to individuals, health and welfare agencies and police. The two issues commonly co-occur. Evidence is emerging indicating that both issues need to be addressed to improve outcomes for clients, their families and children. Walking a Tightrope is a concise resource for people who have a family member who uses both alcohol and other drugs (AOD) and violence in their relationships. The resource was produced through a partnership between Family Drug Support (FDS) and the National Centre for Education and Training on Addiction (NCETA) and was funded by the Department of Social Services. It was launched in Sydney by the Hon. Kevin Humphries, MP, in April 2014, with dissemination workshops held in Sydney, Adelaide, and Melbourne. 

The resource and workshops have been well received by government, front-line workers, and law enforcement. The Hon. Tony Abbott, MP, provided a message for the launch acknowledging the work of NCETA and Family Drug Support in this challenging, yet vitally important area, and expressing gratitude to AOD workers who work tirelessly to help people overcome difficult circumstances.

South Australian police have also requested 10,000 copies of the resource for statewide dissemination.

Download Walking a Tightrope. Alcohol and Other Drug Use and Violence: A Guide for Families.