NSPCC reveals 8,000 children in region with alcoholic parent

This figure is part of a wider national concern, with 73,250 children in England who were subject to a Child in Need assessment identified as having a parent who misused alcohol.

Kam Thandi, NSPCC Helpline director, said: “Most parents and carers who drink alcohol do so in moderation, which doesn’t present an increased risk of harm to their children.

“However, when they take it in large quantities over a long period of time it can lead to abuse and neglect with serious consequences for their future.”

The NSPCC also reported receiving 9,192 contacts relating to concerns about parental substance misuse.

Reports included people reporting hearing arguments and furniture being thrown, seeing parents inebriated and collapsed, and children appearing dirty and neglected.

The charity shared its data during Children of Alcoholics Week, which runs from February 8 to 14 and is led by the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa).

Hilary Henriques, chief executive of Nacoa, said: “Every child deserves to live a creative and meaningful life.

“Sadly, when alcohol is the family secret, children are more likely to experience difficult situations with family violence, neglect, and other problems.”

Children and adults affected by parental drinking are encouraged to reach out for help.

Childline is available 24 hours a day on 0800 1111, while Nacoa UK can be contacted on 0800 358 3456.