CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS URGED TO SPEAK OUT

Thousands of kids in Sussex are too scared to tell anyone about their parent's drinking because they're scared of what might happen.

A leading charity says lots of children worry they'll be told off or even taken away if they reveal their mum or dad drinks too much.

The National Association for Children of Alcoholics says the effects of growing up with an alcoholic can be extremely damaging.

From there Alison Jarvis has been speaking to us - listen to the full interview here.

For more information head go to www.nacoa.org.uk or call the Nacoa Helpline 0800 358 3456

If you think you may have a problem with alcohol ring the National Alcoholics Anonymous Helpline: 0845 769 7555

NEW APPROACH TO HELPING ALCHOLIC PARENTS IN SUSSEX AT RISK OF LOSING KIDS

A court to help alcoholic parents beat their addictions and avoid their kids going into care could be set up in Sussex.

It follows the success of a 3 year pilot in London.

It's got the backing of Sussex MP and Children's Minister Tim Loughton.

He's told us it offers a support based approach to dealing with parents with alcohol misuse issues - you can listen to our interview with him by clicking on the button below.

If you think you may have a problem with alcohol ring the National Alcoholics Anonymous Helpline: 0845 769 7555.

TEENS OF ALCOHOLICS OFFERED SUPPORT

Young people in Sussex struggling to cope with a parents drinking are being reminded help's available for them too.

Regular Al-Ateen meetings are run county-wide for children of alcoholics to share their experiences with each other.

Like other 'anonymous' groups, they're confidential and are run by members rather than professionals.

Jason's one of the adult facilitators - he went to Alateen as child as a result of his father's drinking - you can listen to our full interview with him by clicking on the play button below.

For information and help contact ALATEEN
www.al-anonuk.org.uk/alateen
enquiries@al-anonuk.org.uk
Confidential Helpline 020 7403 0888

CHILD PROTECTION TEAMS ALCOHOL WARNING

Foster carers in Sussex are often left dealing with the aftermath of a parent's alcohol abuse.

Child protection teams here say in some cases excessive drinking can lead to kids being taken into care.

Liz Rugg is Assistant Director For Children and Families at East Sussex County Council.

She says fostering a child from an alcoholic home can be very challenging - you can listen to our interview with her by clicking on the play button below.