When Drinking Gets in the Way of Parenting

Feb 18 2010 by Mairon Laird, West Lothian Courier

AS local authorities across the country make budget cuts, it is more important than ever to prioritise vulnerable groups who are most at risk of falling through the net.

It is estimated that at least 100,000 children in Scotland are living with a parent or close family member who has an alcohol problem.

Children need care, support and routine to thrive but thousands of children are being brought up with chaotic home lives caused by alcohol misuse.

They may witness or be victims of verbal, physical and emotional abuse.

Indeed the children might be looking after younger brothers and sisters or even care for the parent when they’re drunk and unable to function properly.

These children often tend to under-achieve at school and they often feel unhappy, ashamed and have low self-esteem.

They can find it difficult to make and keep friends and sadly have an increased risk of developing alcohol problems themselves.

Many of these children are completely isolated, feeling embarrassed to admit there’s a problem in their family.

Children often feel fiercely loyal and protective of their parents and worry about the consequences for them if ‘services’ find out.

Talking to someone they trust, whether a relative, friend, teacher, doctor or counsellor can really make a difference.

We need to make sure that these children are identified and safeguarded by trained professionals who are able to support them and their families in making their lives safer, healthier and happier.

Support for harmful drinkers is vital but let’s not forget the needs of the child.

Gillian Bell, Scottish Network of Alcohol Practitioners for the Young (SNAPY), Alcohol Focus Scotland, 166 Buchanan Street, Glasgow.