Are people scared of asking for help?
● Certainly this was an issue that came out of Scie's knowledge review/practice survey. There is a fear that parents will be seen as not able to look after their children due to a disability rather than being able to do it if the proper support is in place.
● Having a more holistic family-centred assessment would reduce these fears.
Solutions and outcomes: needs before capacity
● There are various examples in the knowledge review and resource guide about how a protocol can have a positive outcome when needs are fully addressed.
● There must be a recognition that needs relating to impairment/illness and disabling barriers must be addressed before making judgements about parenting capacity.
● There is a need for agencies to provide family-focused support.
Factors that support good outcomes for children of parents with alcohol problems
● A stable relationship with a non-drinking parent or other adult.
● Nurturing from others within the family
● Active use of an informal network outside the family for advice and assistance.
● Parents providing structure and control, including united and caring front, family activities, and time and attention.
● Positive influences at school.
● The maintenance of self-esteem and coping skills in the child, including an acquired sense of meaning and faith about life.