Scotland: Support Needed for Children of Parents with Alcohol Problems
More support is needed for children of parents with alcohol problems says Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland.
In Scotland, up to 51,000 children are estimated to live with a parent or carer with an alcohol problem.
Scottish Ministers are aiming to provide mental health counsellors in every secondary school in the country by September 2020. This initiative aims to tackle growing levels of anxiety and depression.
Education Secretary John Swinney was challenged by Monica Lennon, Member of the Scottish Parliament, over progress of this initiative. Her argument was that there are raised concerns about youth who have considered or attempted suicide.
She also stated, it is disappointing that the rollout of school-based counselling in South Lanarkshire has been delayed.
If you are a child or young person whose parents are getting drunk regularly or are alcohol-dependent, you can feel very isolated and anxious,” said Monica Lenon as per The Sunday Post.
This is the reality for tens of thousands of young Scots, yet very little support is available.”
A government spokesperson said they are engaging stakeholders on the draft “Action Plan for our Rights, Respect and Recovery Strategy”. This plan is said to have actions for children, young people and families affected by alcohol and other drug use to be safe, healthy, included and supported.