Children of alcoholics heard in breakthrough parliamentary debate

This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

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This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems.

The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink driving limits, acute regional challenges in Scotland, and the issues facing children living in a household where one or more parents drink problematically. The first ever manifesto for children of alcoholics will be launched during COA Week.

In Byrne’s speech, he gave thanks to helplines working to support families struggling with alcohol problems: ‘I start my remarks this afternoon with heartfelt thanks to such charities as the National Association for Children of Alcoholics, Childline, Turning Point, Aquarius in my home city of Birmingham and many, many others for all the difference they have made to hundreds of thousands of children.’

Byrne has been working closely with Nacoa since establishing the first ever UK All Party Parliamentary Group on Children of Alcoholics. As part of his speech, he referenced the influence of Nacoa Chief Executive, Hilary Henriques, on his thinking:

‘Charities such as the National Association for Children of Alcoholics are so important. When I was in an agony of public shame after the last election, it was Hilary Henriques who got me back on my feet. It was Hilary who helped me see that there was something constructive and productive that I could do to aid this particular cause.’c3rnf8yxaadiqxa-jpg-large

‘Nacoa has had 1 million contacts in the last 15 years by phone, email or through the website. The demand for its services is going up and up. These poor children are suffering in silence. They feel a profound sense of shame and insecurity. They feel that it is their fault. They curse themselves for not being able to do anything about it, and not only do the suffer in silence, but they feel like they are on their own.’

The Shadow Health Secretary, Johnathan Ashworth MP, followed and gave a movingly personal account of his experiences growing up with a parent whose chronic drink problem eventually claimed his life: ‘Dealing with my dad’s alcoholism coloured my upbringing and my life.’ Ashworth described how this affected both his childhood and adult relationship with his father, and how, in the lead up to Ashworth’s wedding, his father moved abruptly to Thailand and did not attend:

‘I was so angry that I could not talk to him, as you would expect. A few months later, he was dead. The friends he had made over there told me he was drinking a bottle of whisky a day. They told me he could not come to the wedding because he did not want to embarrass me. We were from a working-class family in Salford. I had gone to university and become a politician, and posh people would be at the wedding, and he felt that he would embarrass me by being there. I will always regret that.’

Ashworth implored that although his job was to oppose the Government, he wanted to ‘work with the Government on a cross-party basis to put in place a proper strategy for supporting children of alcoholics because, quite simply, 2 million children are suffering. Let us send them a message that they should no longer suffer in silence.’blackwood-wh

The Minister for Public Health and Innovation, Nicola Blackwood MP, commending the bravery of Bryne and Ashworth, was moved to tears following their speeches. She gave her commitment to work with Byrne, Ashworth and the Parliamentary Group to help bring about serious change for children of parents with alcohol problems. She finished her speech by affirming a cross-party unity to help let people know they are not alone:

‘Great social change requires three things: long-term political will, non-partisan partnership and bravery. I have heard all three of those today. I hope that each Member who has spoken here today will continue to work with me as we fight on to tackle this social injustice.’

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Children of alcoholics heard in breakthrough parliamentary debate

This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Governm...

Children of alcoholics heard in breakthrough parliamentary debate

This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Governm...

  • About Nacoa

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • About Nacoa

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Hello!

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Nacoa branding - style guide

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Contact us Person looking at Nacoa's website for people affected by a parent's drinking to show different ways to contact for support or to get involved with the charity to help other children of alcoholics

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Governance

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • History

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Nacoa Helpline

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Calling the helpline

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Helpline FAQs

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Managing browser history

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Monitoring & evaluation

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Policies & procedures

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Our people

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Abie Dunlop

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Amanda Brett

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Amy Dickson

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Carolyn Jones

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Ceri Walker

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Dr Anne-Marie Barron

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Dr Piers Henriques

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Euan Graham Euan Graham

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Hilary Henriques MBE

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Jane Elson

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Josh Connolly

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Katy Stafford

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Laura Leadbeater

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Laurence McAllister Alleyne

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Maya Parker MA

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Peter Irwin

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Patrons & ambassadors

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • The Nacoa Promise

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Experiences Search Result

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Get involved

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Donate or become a member

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • About Gift Aid

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Become a corporate member

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Become a member

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Welcome new member

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Donate in memory

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Gift in your will

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Give in celebration

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Make a donation

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Thank you!

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • More ways to give

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Fundraising

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Thank you for signing up to Big Nacoa Walk 2024! Big Nacoa Walk thumbnail

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Raise awareness

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Sponsored events

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Volunteering

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Message boards

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Log In

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Message board rules of conduct

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Start a new topic

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Nacoa: Helping everyone affected by their parent's drinking Nacoa UK Helping everyone affected by their parent's drinking

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • News & events

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Events

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

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    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

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    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • News

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Privacy and cookies policy

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Research & resources

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Books, videos and media

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Nacoa professionals training

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Nacoa publications

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Research

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Widening Access

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Some Punjabi and Sikh parents drink too much…

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Support & advice

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Adults

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Books, videos and media

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • FAQs

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Help and advice

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Information

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Personal experiences

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Children

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Books, videos and media

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • FAQs

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Help and advice

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Information

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Personal experiences

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Concerned others & professionals

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Books, videos and media

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • FAQs

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Help and advice

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Information

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Personal experiences

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Young people

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Books, videos and media

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • FAQs

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Help and advice

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Information

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Personal experiences

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

  • Topics

    This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems. The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink

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This week Liam Byrne MP and Johnathan Ashworth MP secured a commitment from the Government to work together to support children of parents with alcohol problems.

The debate in Westminster Hall at the Houses of Parliament included pressing topics relating to alcohol harm, such as foetal alcohol syndrome disorders (FASD), minimum alcohol pricing, legal drink driving limits, acute regional challenges in Scotland, and the issues facing children living in a household where one or more parents drink problematically. The first ever manifesto for children of alcoholics will be launched during COA Week.

In Byrne’s speech, he gave thanks to helplines working to support families struggling with alcohol problems: ‘I start my remarks this afternoon with heartfelt thanks to such charities as the National Association for Children of Alcoholics, Childline, Turning Point, Aquarius in my home city of Birmingham and many, many others for all the difference they have made to hundreds of thousands of children.’

Byrne has been working closely with Nacoa since establishing the first ever UK All Party Parliamentary Group on Children of Alcoholics. As part of his speech, he referenced the influence of Nacoa Chief Executive, Hilary Henriques, on his thinking:

‘Charities such as the National Association for Children of Alcoholics are so important. When I was in an agony of public shame after the last election, it was Hilary Henriques who got me back on my feet. It was Hilary who helped me see that there was something constructive and productive that I could do to aid this particular cause.’c3rnf8yxaadiqxa-jpg-large

‘Nacoa has had 1 million contacts in the last 15 years by phone, email or through the website. The demand for its services is going up and up. These poor children are suffering in silence. They feel a profound sense of shame and insecurity. They feel that it is their fault. They curse themselves for not being able to do anything about it, and not only do the suffer in silence, but they feel like they are on their own.’

The Shadow Health Secretary, Johnathan Ashworth MP, followed and gave a movingly personal account of his experiences growing up with a parent whose chronic drink problem eventually claimed his life: ‘Dealing with my dad’s alcoholism coloured my upbringing and my life.’ Ashworth described how this affected both his childhood and adult relationship with his father, and how, in the lead up to Ashworth’s wedding, his father moved abruptly to Thailand and did not attend:

‘I was so angry that I could not talk to him, as you would expect. A few months later, he was dead. The friends he had made over there told me he was drinking a bottle of whisky a day. They told me he could not come to the wedding because he did not want to embarrass me. We were from a working-class family in Salford. I had gone to university and become a politician, and posh people would be at the wedding, and he felt that he would embarrass me by being there. I will always regret that.’

Ashworth implored that although his job was to oppose the Government, he wanted to ‘work with the Government on a cross-party basis to put in place a proper strategy for supporting children of alcoholics because, quite simply, 2 million children are suffering. Let us send them a message that they should no longer suffer in silence.’blackwood-wh

The Minister for Public Health and Innovation, Nicola Blackwood MP, commending the bravery of Bryne and Ashworth, was moved to tears following their speeches. She gave her commitment to work with Byrne, Ashworth and the Parliamentary Group to help bring about serious change for children of parents with alcohol problems. She finished her speech by affirming a cross-party unity to help let people know they are not alone:

‘Great social change requires three things: long-term political will, non-partisan partnership and bravery. I have heard all three of those today. I hope that each Member who has spoken here today will continue to work with me as we fight on to tackle this social injustice.’

You are not alone

Remember the Six "C"s

I didn’t cause it
I can’t control it
I can’t cure it
I can take care of myself
I can communicate my feelings
I can make healthy choices

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