Fresh support for families affected by alcohol

Haringey families dealing with alcohol dependency will be able to access better support in the borough thanks to a three-year grant awarded today to the council and its partners.

Haringey Council, working with partners ADFAM and CDP Blenheim, made a successful bid to the Government’s Innovation Fund for Children of Alcohol Dependent Parents and the partnership stands to receive over £600,000 over three years to deliver a system-wide approach.

The approach aims to support the wellbeing of children of alcohol dependent parents, improve family relationships, help people out of dependency and meet affected families’ wider support needs such as housing, employment, and mental health – as well as increasing referrals to alcohol treatment.

The work will include community workshops, engagement with children, parental counselling and intensive support for families.

There will also be peer support programmes and training for specialist workers from across the borough, providing a rounded support network for families.

Professionals and community groups will work more closely together across the borough, from health visitors and GPs to young people’s groups and children’s services.

This team effort will help by spotting the early warning signs of alcohol misuse and parental conflict, and acting as an information-sharing network. 

In Haringey, an estimated 73% of alcohol dependent adults living with children do not access treatment and available help.

Zina Etheridge, Haringey Council’s Chief Executive, said:

“Alcohol dependence can have a damaging and long-lasting effect on families – not just the parents but their children too.

 “This vital funding will help us to work across the community to create practical, easily accessible help and support that will genuinely meet our families’ needs.”