More than half of all child protection cases in many local authorities involve parental substance misuse. What are the long-term effects on children exposed to such an environment? What must social workers know and do to address the needs of these children? And how can foster carers and adopters be well supported in caring for such children?
At a time of rising concern about parental substance misuse, this book tackles practice, policy and research issues based on the latest developments and knowledge of the subject. It is aimed at both families and professionals and replaces the earlier Bruised Before Birth (BAAF 1994, now out of print), but is far more comprehensive and extensive in scope and coverage than its predecessor. Designed to be as "reader-friendly" as possible, the book is divided into five sections:
Section I: Sets the scene, looking at the role of the medical adviser and giving current information on the effects of psychoactive drugs (those affecting the mind and brain);
Section II: Medical experts examine the effects of drug, alcohol and tobacco misuse in pregnancy and beyond, including a chapter on placing children born to women with blood-borne viruses;
Section III: Takes a child-centred look at the challenge for social work and what social workers must know when planning for children of substance misusing parents. Includes the first research on the social work response, assessment issues and inter-professional co-operation. Includes the needs of black and dual-heritage children.
Section IV: Highlights the views of those directly affected - listening to what children, adopters and foster carers have to say including powerful contributions from adoptive parents and an adopted adult, Takes a neurobiological approach to attachment processes and looks at the issues involved when living with children who think and feel with a different brain;
Section V: Outlines a comprehensive and needs-led approach to care planning, the challenges of making placements, therapeutic interventions and helping the vulnerable child in school.
Vividly illustrated with case examples and first person accounts, this collection provides a solid foundation for all those dealing with the consequences of parental substance misuse. It will be useful for medical advisers, children's social workers, family placement workers, foster carers and adoptive parents.
