Parents/Carers - FAQ's

We can support you as a parent or carer if you’re worried about your child’s drug or alcohol use. You can access one-to-one support with our Parent Support Practitioner or join our parents’ support group, where you can meet other parents and carers who may be in a similar situation.If your other children are affected by a family member’s substance use, our YouCan service can also support children and young people affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use.

No. You can contact us because you’re worried about your child’s drug or alcohol use, even if they don’t want support themselves.

No. We understand that every family is different. Our support is non-judgemental and focused on helping you and your family.

No. You can access one-to-one support without attending the group. If you would like to join the parents’ support group, we’ll explain how it works and what you can expect.

No. We can offer support online, so you don’t necessarily need to travel to one of our centres.

We offer flexible support wherever possible. If you work or have other commitments during the day, speak to us about what times might work for you.

Our parents’ support group provides a safe and supportive space where you can meet other parents and carers who may understand what you’re going through. You can share experiences, ask questions and get support from people who have faced similar challenges.

What young people tell us is confidential, unless we’re worried that they or someone else is at serious risk of harm. If we need to share information because of a serious concern, we’ll talk to the young person about this wherever possible.

There isn’t one reason why a young person may use drugs or alcohol. Everyone’s circumstances are different. Some possible reasons include:Curiosity - wanting to understand what a substance feels like or what effect it has.Experimentation - trying something without necessarily intending to use it regularly.Coping with difficulties - using substances to cope with things such as stress, anxiety or other challenges.Socialising - using substances as part of spending time with friends or socialising.Enjoyment or relaxation - some young people may use substances because they enjoy the effects.Peer pressure - feeling pressured to use substances because friends or other people around them are using them.Availability - drugs or alcohol may be relatively easy for them to access.It’s important to remember that there may be several reasons behind a young person’s substance use. Talking to them without judgement can help you understand what might be happening for them.

You don’t have to wait until you know exactly what is happening before asking for support. If you’re worried, you can contact us and talk through your concerns with a member of our team.