Volatile substance use in Western Australia
This website is a resource for front-line workers, service providers and other professionals working with or around people affected by volatile substance use (VSU).
VSU
Alcohol. Think Again
Learn more about VSU
Volatile substance use (VSU) is the deliberate inhalation of substances, which produce a vapour or gas at room temperature, for their intoxicating effects. It is commonly referred to as 'sniffing', 'chroming', ‘inhalant or solvent use’.
Strategies to address VSU
VSU is a complex issue which requires a multi-faceted response comprising a range of complementary interventions. An effective response to VSU should include strategies balanced across the 3 pillars of harm minimisation - supply reduction, demand reduction and harm reduction.
Learn more below and see the Strategies pages of this website for more information and strategy ideas.
Pillar 1
Supply reduction
Reduce access and availability through awareness-raising targeted at the source of supply.
For example:
Provide information to retailers, industry, contractors, tourists or other potential sources of supply of volatile substances.
For example:
Provide information to retailers, industry, contractors, tourists or other potential sources of supply of volatile substances.
Pillar 2
Demand reduction
Reduce VSU and prevent uptake of those who use, or are at risk of using volatile substances.
For example:
Engage people into alternate activities such as recreational or cultural activities, employment/training or educational pursuits.
For example:
Engage people into alternate activities such as recreational or cultural activities, employment/training or educational pursuits.
Pillar 3
Harm reduction
Reduce harms associated with VSU for the individual, the family and the community.
For example:
Provide information to those who use volatile substances, about the risks and harmful impacts associated with VSU and how to reduce them.
For example:
Provide information to those who use volatile substances, about the risks and harmful impacts associated with VSU and how to reduce them.
VSU tools and information
Find out more about the resources and tools available to help you respond to VSU in your community.
