Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

Local Govt | National News Video | Parliament Headlines | Politics Headlines | Search

 

Addiction Services Helping People Through The Lockdown

The Salvation Army is concerned at the rise in the number of online gambling sites that have appeared since last week’s nationwide lockdown came into force.

As the organisation continues to support people struggling with addiction through the lockdown, Lisa Campbell, The Salvation Army National Operations Manager – Oasis says she is concerned about rising levels of online gambling over this lockdown period, as pokie venues and casinos have had to close, along with the online availability of NZ Lotto and TAB services.

“I have seen overseas online gambling companies advertise on Facebook over the past couple of days,” Lisa says.

“I am sure they see social isolation as a great opportunity to expand business without any thought for the additional harm this could cause, further exacerbating the financial and mental harm on people already.”

Oasis is currently compiling information on online blocking tools that people can use to block internet gambling sites. Staff are contacting current clients about the remote sessions.

“We have heard from some clients who say they are really concerned about how they will cope, both financially and practically, at home with family or alone during the lockdown period, and are feeling very anxious, so some have asked for more support than normal,” Lisa says.

National Addiction, Supportive Accomodation and Reintegration Services Director Lt-Colonel Lynette Hutson says The Salvation Army is also encouraging those needing support through drug and alcohol addiction, to reach out via phone or at salvationarmy.org.nz

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

“We are concerned many people suffering from addictions may be feeling very alone at this time. The Salvation Army continues to support people online and over the phone. We want to make sure people have access to the help they need,” she says.

There is also a danger that people may slide into heavy drinking when at home alone, to pass the time.

“We’re here on the end of the phone for anyone who is feeling as if they may be getting into trouble with this or other drug use,” Lt-Colonel Hutson says.

“We know people feel stigma. The Salvation Army doesn’t judge. We help without bias and we are here to support anyone, no matter what the circumstances.”

Bridge Residential services continue and can be contacted by phone or email for referrals.

Please visit www.salvationarmy.org.nz/Bridge for more information, or phone 0800 53 00 00.

Supportive Accommodation/Transitional Housing services continue to operate across the country for those already in residence. Limited referrals may be considered, depending on availability of services. Visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.nz/housing for more information.

Visit www.salvationarmy.org.nz/oasis for direct access to our Oasis services or follow us on Facebook at OasisReducingGamblingHarm.

The Salvation Army Reintegration Services are also operating to support those released from prison.

© Scoop Media

 
 
 
Parliament Headlines | Politics Headlines | Regional Headlines



Gordon Campbell: On Dune 2, And Images Of Islam


Depictions of Islam in Western popular culture have rarely been positive, even before 9/11. Five years on from the mosque shootings, this is one of the cultural headwinds that the Muslim community has to battle against. Whatever messages of tolerance and inclusion are offered in daylight, much of our culture tends to be hostile to Islam when we’re sitting in the dark, with popcorn.
Any number of movie examples come to mind, beginning with Rudolf Valentino’s role (over a century ago) as the romantic Arab hero in The Sheik...
More


 
 


Government: One-stop Shop Major Projects On The Fast Track

The Coalition Government’s new one-stop-shop fast track consenting regime for regional and national projects of significance will cut red tape and make it easier for New Zealand to build the infrastructure and major projects needed to get the country moving again... More

ALSO:


Government: GPS 2024: Over $20 Billion To Get Transport Back On Track
Transport Minister Simeon Brown has released the draft Government Policy Statement (GPS) on Land Transport, outlining the Coalition Government’s plan to build and maintain a transport system that enables people to get to where they need to go quickly and safely... More

ALSO:

Government: Humanitarian Support For Gaza & West Bank

Winston Peters has announced NZ is providing a further $5M to respond to the extreme humanitarian need in Gaza and the West Bank. “The impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on civilians is absolutely appalling," he said... More


Government: New High Court Judge Appointed

Judith Collins has announced the appointment of Wellington Barrister Jason Scott McHerron as a High Court Judge. Justice McHerron graduated from the University of Otago with a BA in English Literature in 1994 and an LLB in 1996... More

 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • PARLIAMENT
  • POLITICS
  • REGIONAL
 
 

InfoPages News Channels


 
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.