The Salvation Army Media Release

Addiction specialists gather to share knowledge & experience

Wellington, 18 September 2007 - Salvation Army addiction specialists from as far away as the United Kingdom and the United States are gathering in Auckland to share their knowledge and experience.

Almost 200 addiction workers are expected to attend the 'Unity in Diversity' conference, which runs from 19-21 September in Mt Wellington, Auckland.

The conference will include presentations on the effects of substance abuse on the family, various models and effectiveness of treatment, problem gambling, supportive accommodation, and community reintegration. Salvation Army Commissioner Garth McKenzie will open the conference.

Delegates are coming from throughout The Salvation Army's New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga Territory and the two Australian territories, while representatives from the United Kingdom and the United States will also be attending.

Salvation Army Addiction and Supportive Accommodation Services National Manager, Major Lynette Hutson, says The Salvation Army has a long experience in the provision of addiction services in countries around the world.

'The conference is a chance for our addiction specialists to get together to share their knowledge and experience so that we can further strengthen the work we do in helping people with addictions.'

Throughout New Zealand The Salvation Army provides a range of alcohol and drug addiction services, help for problem gamblers, and supportive accommodation.

ENDS