Support for families with children born damaged by alcohol

Witney Parents, Julia and Simon Brown have set up a support group to help those, who like themselves, have children affected by Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). They became aware of the syndrome, when it was diagnosed in their adopted daughter Niamh at the age of six. Julia says: “There is little awareness of FASD among the medical profession and it can often be misdiagnosed as autism, attention deficit disorder, or simply bad behaviour or poor parenting! With Niamh it first became apparent when she went to school that there was something different. Her behaviour was different from the other children – something we wouldn’t have noticed so much at home.”

It has been known for years that drinking alcohol during pregnancy can damage the unborn child. In fact, FASD is the leading cause of brain damage in the western world and although most individuals with FASD have normal intelligence, it can cause serious social and behavioural problems. Behavioural and physical characteristics of FASD can include: attention and memory deficits, hyperactivity, a low birth weight and small head circumference, a flat mid face, short upturned nose, and poor judgement and impulse control.

Niamh is now seven and the diagnosis came as a relief: “Having a diagnosis has been really important,” explains Julia. “When you know the underlying cause is exposure to alcohol in the womb, you can respond appropriately.” After the diagnosis, Julia and her husband Simon, who is now Niamh’s full time carer, realised that there was very little support for families in their situation and this prompted them to form the Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Trust.

The aim of the charity is to run support groups for children and families via a helpline and a website. Julia is also organising training sessions for both professionals and the general public, and they have both been invited to speak at a conference in the autumn run by a group that provides education about the dangers of taking alcohol and drugs. Julia says: “Hopefully through listening and learning from each other we can make all of our lives a little bit easier.” The Trust’s helpline number is 0560 268 9478 and the website is: www.fasdtrust.co.uk

The photograph shows Julia, Niamh and Simon.