Talking to people you are supporting about their children’s wellbeing

Talking to someone about their children

If you are working with someone who is using alcohol or drugs, they may not be aware that their children will be affected.

The first step is to discuss it openly and honestly. You can help them to understand the impact on their child and what support is available.

We’ve put together these tips for helping to keep conversations open, comfortable and productive.

Use active listening

Letting people speak before you answer them or jump in with your own thoughts makes them feel safe and comfortable.

Reassure

It’s common for parents to worry about their child talking to a professional. Explore these worries with the adult and allow them time to work through them.

Get comfortable

Don’t apologise for talking about their children. They’re an important part of people’s lives so get comfortable asking about them.

Be open

Acknowledge their worries and reflect on the lived experience of children affected by family substance use. Keep the children at the centre of your discussions.

Offer support

Let them know about the support available for their children. Talk to them about children and families workers that can support their children.

Have regular conversations

Make sure these conversations are part of your regular discussions. It’s important that conversations about children don’t only take place when there are safeguarding concerns.

Here are some useful questions you could ask:

How are your children? How do you think they feel at the moment?

What’s going well for them and your family?

How are things for the children at school?

Did you know there are specially trained children and young people’s workers that can work with your children to give them some extra support?