Pubdate: Wed, 10 Apr 2002
Source: Australian Associated Press (Australia Wire)
Copyright: 2002 Australian Associated Press

SUPERVISED CHROMING 'SOMETIMES THE ONLY WAY'

Welfare leaders meeting in Victoria say youth workers who help young 
solvent abusers by monitoring them while they sniff paint fumes should do 
so only as a last resort.

But participants in the forum, convened by the Victorian Alcohol and Drug 
Association, have released a joint statement which says the need to 
supervise chroming reveals society's failure to help at-risk youths.

VAADA executive officer, CAROL BENNETT, says solvent abuse is a symptom of 
far deeper personal problems in young people.

Ms BENNETT says welfare staff should not be blamed for showing concern, as 
there are zero resources when what's needed is a range of services to help 
these youngsters.

Earlier this year a public uproar broke out in Victoria after it was 
revealed youth workers at one Melbourne welfare agency were overseeing 
young solvent abusers while they inhaled.

What became known as the chroming affair cost the then Minister for 
Community Services CHRISTINE CAMPBELL her portfolio.
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MAP posted-by: Beth