Research highlights serious harm caused to children by parental alcohol and drug use

The 2022 report estimated that 15% of Ireland’s child population were affected by parental problem alcohol use alone. The scale of hidden harm in some Dublin communities was 'significantly higher' than 15%, according to new research. File Picture

Children are enduring hunger and lack of hygiene, as well as stunted language and grooming skills, due to parental problem  alcohol and drug use, new research has found.

Youth workers, school and afterschool managers, drug and family services, as well as health and social care professionals, also report heightened volatility, neurodivergence, and traumatic experiences among the children affected.