Children in families affected by alcohol and drug use
Children living in families with alcohol or drug use can be at risk of harm. We work with families where there is a problem to help keep children, young people and unborn babies safe.
We encourage parents to get the help they need.
We make sure that children whose parents or guardians attend drug or alcohol services are protected from harm and their needs are met.
Contact Social Care Direct if you are worried about a child or young person’s safety or wellbeing.
In an emergency call 999
if it's not urgent call 101
How we work with families
The Children Affected by Parental Substance Misuse (CAPSM) guide for staff and agencies sets out how we can best work together, and with parents, to help reduce risks to children. They apply to everyone in Edinburgh and the Lothians who works with children and families and alcohol and drug users. Parents may find the guide useful. It shows how agencies work together to help the family.
Download the guidelines and practitioner toolkit on the Child Protection for Professionals page.
Visit Edinburgh Alcohol and Drug Partnership to find out how it helps people with substance use problems.
How we work with pregnant women affected by alcohol and drug use
PrePare is an intensive parental substance use service. It offers support before, during and after the baby's birth and work with women who are pregnant or have just given birth and are affected by drugs and alcohol.