Parents unsure where to get help for children’s drug problems

Parents worried about their children’s drug use often feel
“out of control” with little understanding about where
to turn for help, according to Parentline Plus, writes
Clare Jerrom.

The helpline charity studied call thousands from parents and
concluded that families can be marginalised and should be targeted
with improved services. The study highlights parents as having a
major role in preventing their children misusing drugs, but need
lots of support.

“The government’s initiatives aimed at tackling drugs
misuse amongst young people are welcome, but our study indicates
that parents are still bewildered and ill-informed when faced with
evidence of their children’s drug taking, especially when
such use is associated with multiple problems,” said Jan Fry,
head of external relations at Parentline Plus and author of the
report.

The charity calls for early interventions and education to be
provided to parents before their child comes into contact with
drugs. Fathers should also be more actively involved to help give
their children preventative messages early on.

There should also be more family support services on the ground
with investment, delivering parenting skills-building generally and
not just around issues such as drugs and sex education.