Children’s lives are being ruined by alcohol-fuelled violence – that’s the call of charity CHILDREN 1ST, who have launched a summer drive to raise awareness of the issue. And with an estimated 80,000 children in Scotland affected by parental alcohol misuse1, the charity is urging everybody to take responsibility to protect children. Anyone concerned about a child living with alcohol-fuelled abuse this summer can call the free and confidential helpline ParentLine Scotland on 08000 28 22 33.
Alison Todd, Deputy Chief Executive at CHILDREN 1ST, said:
“Our message is that it is everybody’s responsibility to protect children from violence fuelled by alcohol misuse, particularly as families prepare for the summer holidays.
“Every day, CHILDREN 1ST supports children to recover from the trauma of abuse and violence caused by parental alcohol misuse. The impacts include low self-esteem, anxiety, poor health and emotional well-being, with children often subject to physical and emotional abuse or witness to violence between their parents.”
Nanette Milne, Scottish Conservative MSP for the North East said:
“It’s unacceptable that at least 80,000 children in Scotland are growing up with their childhoods blighted by adults’ drinking – and worse, adults becoming abusive and violent towards them. There are too many situations involving alcohol which result in a child witnessing violence or bearing the brunt of it themselves.
CHILDREN 1ST campaign is needed not only to highlight the issue, but also to encourage us all to do more to protect children. We can start by making sure anyone concerned about a child knows to call ParentLine Scotland.
“It’s awful to think that many children grow up feeling anxious about their summer holidays, rather than looking forward to them. These are days that should be filled with happiness and laughter, but they are often ruined by aggression, violence and anger due to alcohol. I’m supporting CHILDREN 1ST campaign so that in the future, hopefully more children will be allowed to enjoy their holidays.”