51,000 Children 'Living With An Alcoholic'

Over 51,000 children and young people in Scotland live with an alcoholic parent, according to an alcohol support charity.

This comes as Childline reports the number of calls about parents abusing drink or drugs has more than doubled in the last year. Alcohol Support Scotland has launched a website for young people concerned about a loved one's drinking.

A.D.A.M. (Another’s Drinking Affects Me) is aimed at 11-16 year olds and offers advice on how to cope using five animated characters who tell real life stories. The site also provides links to local and national support services, encouraging young people to make contact and get help sooner rather than later. 

Jane Wilson, Senior Learning and Development Coordinator at Alcohol Focus Scotland said:
 
"A.D.A.M. adds to our range of resources to support children affected by alcohol.  It is a much needed resource for young people who are affected by someone else’s drinking, whether a parent, sibling, friend or other relative.  

"The young people who we worked with to develop the site told us they wanted an online resource that they could explore on their own with tips and information on how to cope.  The site gives support and advice, coping strategies and links to services where they can get help if they need it."