How parental alcohol use effects children and young people...
My name is Chantelle Green, I am a hidden harm worker at Insightful Families, based in Haringey. We support families, including children that are concerned by Alcohol.
We have seen that parental alcohol use can impact the wellbeing of children and young people; and often the alcohol use is seen as the ‘elephant in the room’ that no one in the family talks about. The term ‘alcoholic’ can portray a stereotype that can lead to families feeling judged and stigmatised. Children being bullied at school; feelings of isolation and anxiety are really common. Children and young people often feel they need to hold this ‘secret’ and cannot talk to anyone as they don’t want their parents to get into trouble.
Our young people can often take on parental roles and responsibilities at home, becoming young carers. Things like helping siblings get ready for school, making sure everyone has dinner and checking if mum or dad is ok after an evening of drinking can not only feel like added pressure but also necessary to keep their family together.
Alcohol use is very common and normalised amongst many communities in society; it is legal, relatively cheap and readily available. One of the biggest challenge children and young people face is getting their voice heard, being identified and signposted to the appropriate support services. Often alcohol use is minimised by families and if no one is talking about it then how do family members, friends and professionals know that a young person and family may need support?
We offer free and confidential 1:1 support to children and young people, the sessions include age appropriate alcohol awareness, building resilience & emotional wellbeing. We hold a group for young people aged 11+. This is a great way to share experiences, hopes and to make new friends. At the same time, my colleagues also can provide support to parents, other family members and carers; we work with any one individual family member to everyone in the whole family; and everything in between!
In the school holidays we do fun activities in the community which are also free. Some of our favourites are trampolining, crazy golf and bowling! This is an opportunity for families to come together, have fun and make new memories!
Family members, friends and professionals can get in touch with our service by phone, email, visiting or website or following us on social media. Our friendly team are here to help so please get in touch!
T: 020 8493 8525
E: insightplatform@humankindcharity.org.uk
W: insightyoungpeople.org.uk
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