This family and alcohol research study was developed by NWAF Ltd in partnership with existing structures within the NW Regional Drugs Task Force area.

The findings of this research will provide valuable new evidence on the extent of the problem, establish baseline measures against which future activities can be measured and help inform the development of appropriate support family mechanisms in the North West area and also nationally.

Contents
1. North West Alcohol Forum Ltd
2. Aim of the research project p.1
2.1 Background
2.2 Aim of the research project
2.3 Conceptual base of study
3. Review of Literature p.3
4. Research Design p.5
4.1 Methodology
4.2 Data sources
4.3 Framework for analysis
5. Results p.9
5.1 Adults as role models- risky drinking patterns Ireland
5.2 Children’s exposure to risk within families
5.3 Community awareness of risk to children
5.4 Children’s experience of neglect and abuse
5.5 Child abuse and the involvement of alcohol
5.5.1 National Protection Data Results
5.5.2 RAISE data
5.5.3 Hospitalisations for child abuse in the North West
6. Views of frontline staff working in Family Support Services p.29
6.1 Binge Drinking - the drinking norm in Ireland
6.2 Youth doing what they see
6.3 Parental responsibility for youth drinking
6.4 Parental alcohol problems
6.5 Parental drinking - consequences for children
6.6 Intervention – when?
6.7 Ways of working with families
6.8 The meaning of Binge Drinking
7. Family support services p.33
7.1 Strengthening Families Programme - Donegal
7.2 Springboard Resource House Project - Sligo
8. Summary and Conclusions p.35
9. Recommendations p.40