Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term encompassing a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders that arise directly from prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE). Despite its prevalence, affecting an estimated 7.7 per 1000 individuals globally (Lange et al. 2017), FASD remains underdiagnosed and significantly misunderstood, particularly within health, social care and education systems. Thus, caregivers of children with FASD, including foster and adoptive parents, face considerable pressures and complex challenges. This study investigated the lived experiences of foster and adoptive parents who care for a child with FASD in Ireland.

Methods: A qualitative research design was employed, and seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with foster and adoptive parents. Data was analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) reflexive thematic analysis framework to create in-depth knowledge of participants’ experiences.

Results: Four core themes were identified: ‘Navigating the Diagnostic Journey’; ‘Managing Complex Behaviours and Needs’; ‘The Caregiving Experience: Strain, Sacrifice, and Strength’; ‘Post-Diagnosis System Gaps’. Findings of the study revealed prolonged delays in diagnosis, a lack of awareness surrounding FASD, and inadequate support systems. This resulted in experiences of emotional strain and elevated stress levels among caregivers.

Conclusions: This study added to emerging literature by providing in-depth understanding of the experiences of caring for a child with FASD, in the Irish context. The study’s findings emphasise the urgent need to improve support services to families caring for individuals with FASD and they highlight that caregiver support should be prioritised in future research.