Alcohol Focus Scotland has developed a learning resource that tackles the issue of harm caused to children because of parental alcohol problems.

It is estimated that at least 65,000 children in Scotland are affected by a parent with a drink problem. Children who have to cope with their parent's unpredictable behaviour, rows, neglect, domestic violence, can feel ashamed and often under-achieve at school.

The resource is based on Rory, a fictional dog who can't understand why his owner is neglecting him, until it's explained to him that it's because his owner drinks too much.

Click here for full Rory Information Sheet

The Rory learning resource pack contains:

• Rory story book
• Mp4 player
• Rory puppet
• Activity pack (games, worksheets, stickers, kennel build game)
• Guidance notes

Teachers, counsellors and social workers can use the pack in different ways to help children understand the feelings they might experience when living with someone who has an alcohol problem and encourage children to speak to a trusted adult. Adults reading the book will also gain a better understanding of the impact of parental alcohol misuse from a child's perspective.

Although the resource is aimed at aimed at children aged 5-11, another version of the story book has been produced which is suitable for younger children or those with additional support needs.

The Rory learning resource has been piloted in 9 West Lothian primary schools as part of the Community Action - Blackburn (Changing Attitudes to Alcohol) project.

The evaluation is now available to download

How to order

• The Rory book costs £4.95 (version suitable for young children/those with additional support needs also available).
• The Rory learning resource pack costs £129.
• The Rory learning resource pack without the mp4 player costs £85.

P&P charges apply.

Please order by calling 0141 572 6700 or emailing: rory@alcohol-focus-scotland.org.uk

Pupils from Cardross Primary School at the launch of the Rory storybook

Nicola Barry, journalist and author of "Mother's Ruin" said:

"Rory is a delightful, highly readable and important book - one which will bring hope and understanding to thousands of children whose parents have a problem with alcohol.

"I only wish there had been something similar around when I was growing up with an alcoholic mother. I might not have wasted so much time and energy feeling guilty and responsible, when, all the time, nothing I could have done would have stopped her drinking."