Alcohol, tobacco and other drugs sector with lived and living experience

Understanding and supporting the unique perspectives and contributions of workers in the alcohol, tobacco and other drugs sector with lived and living experience
Presented by Ms Anke van der Sterren, Research and Sector Capacity-Building Manager
This presentation will examine the characteristics of the lived and living experience workforce in the alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) sector in the ACT, how the perspectives of lived/living experience workers shape their practice, and how we can best support their work and wellbeing. The presentation will draw on data from two research projects of the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT (ATODA): the ACT ATOD Workforce Profile; and the ACT ATOD Service Users Satisfaction and Outcomes Survey.
The presentation will provide participants with the opportunity to:
• Examine the characteristics of the lived and living experience workforce in the ATOD sector
• Gain insight into how ATOD workers believe their lived and living experiences influence their practice
• Explore the qualities identified by ATOD service users as important in the lived and living experience workforce
• Reflect on how these understandings may inform: improvements to ATOD workforce recruitment, retention and professional development pathways; the development of supportive, non-discriminatory workplaces; and the provision of high-quality ATOD treatment and support to clients.
Anke van der Sterren is the Research and Sector Capacity-Building Manager at the Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Association ACT (ATODA), the peak organisation for alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) services in the ACT. Anke is a medical anthropologist with experience in public health research and evaluation, applying mixed methods to a range of ATOD issues. This has included working in Aboriginal Community-Controlled, academic, and non-government settings, engaging collaboratively with communities experiencing complex health and social disadvantages and marginalisation. Anke is part of the Future Health Leaders Program at UNSW and is undertaking a Professional Doctorate in Applied Public Health.