​Children will become next generation of problem drinkers

Children need support to protect them from their parents harmful drinking, leading charities have warned.

A recent report says up to 51,000 children could be living with alcoholic parents in Scotland with youngsters at risk of developing the same behaviour as they get older.

Figures revealed last week in the annual Scottish Health Survey estimated that between 36,000 and 51,000 children are living with a parent or guardian whose alcohol use is potentially problematic.

The report said that alcohol is now 60% more affordable in the UK than it was in 1980 making it possible to exceed the recommended drinking limits for a week for just £3.

Mary Glasgow, acting chief executive of the charity Children 1st, said: “For children living in families where there is substance misuse, life can be frightening, unpredictable and chaotic.

"Children may be very worried and anxious about what their parents might take if they go out and leave them.

"There is a growing understanding in Scotland of the impact of adverse childhood experiences can have on your long-term health - including substance misuse.

"By investing in increased support for families to prevent or reduce adversities and to help them recover, Children 1st believe Scotland will be able to halt the cycle of childhood trauma through different generations."

Her call was backed by Liz Nolan, assistant director for Aberlour while Justina Murray, chief executive of Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs, added: “We need wider recognition of the harms caused by alcohol to everyone in the family, along with appropriately funded services that will help young people feel comfortable to talk openly about what is going on at home to ensure their needs are fully met.”

The UK Supreme Court is this month expected to issue its verdict on the Scottish Government's plans for minimum pricing.