Over 1,000 referrals made in South East over parents' drug or alcohol use
The NSPCC has shared the figures as they offer support to families
Over 1,000 referrals have been made by the NSPCC in the South East over the past year - over concerns a child's being affected by their parents drug or alcohol use.
The charity's sharing the statistics to urge families who are struggling to seek support.
According to Nacoa (National Association for the Children of Alcoholics), one in five children in the UK are affected by their parent’s drinking.
Last year, 9,530 children in the South East who were subject to a Child in Need assessment were identified as having a parent who misused alcohol.
Parents who regularly take drugs, drink, or both in large quantities over a long period of time, can have chaotic, unpredictable lifestyles and may struggle to recognise and meet their children’s needs, increasing the risk of harm.
Although the charity says this doesn't necessarily mean a child will experience abuse, it does make it more difficult for parents to offer safe and loving care. This can lead to abuse or neglect and have a serious impact on a child’s emotional wellbeing.
Kamaljit Thandi, NSPCC Helpline Director, said: “Parental substance misuse can have a truly devastating impact on the lives of children and the effects can last long into adulthood.
“Parents who drink or take drugs to excess may have difficulty looking after their children and responding to their needs. Some may lose consciousness, leaving no other responsible adult present to care for their child and ensure their safety. The stress upon children of having parents who misuse substances can cause impaired development and problems with learning and memory.
“While we want children to know they are not alone and there is help available to them, we all can play a part in looking out for potential signs of a child’s distress and the NSPCC Helpline is there to provide support for families who are struggling.”
Hilary Henriques MBE, Chief Executive of Nacoa, said: “Imagine coming home from school and dreading what you might find. Imagine having no friends because you’re too embarrassed to bring them home in case Mum or Dad are drunk, or worse. You have no one to turn to because everyone denies there is a problem.
“When alcohol is the family secret, children and adults often believe that talking is being disloyal to their family and try to hide the problem from the outside world. Children often take on responsibility for their parent’s drinking and behaviour, believing it’s something they’ve done.
“Some children spend their childhoods trying to do the impossible; stop someone else drinking. Talking to someone who understands and doesn't judge can be lifesaving. When they know this is not their responsibility and that only the person drinking can make that choice, the burden of ‘failing’ is lifted from their shoulders, opening up an opportunity to live their own lives, irrespective of whether their parent continues to drink.”
Childline is there 24 hours a day, free and in confidence, on 0800 1111.
Nacoa’s Helpline is available for everyone affected by a parent’s drinking – children, adults and professionals.
They can be reached on 0800 358 3456 or at [email protected].