Launch of Scottish Network of Alcohol Practitioners for the Young (SNAPY)

03/03/2009

The Scottish Network of Alcohol Practitioners for the Young (SNAPY) will be launched at a conference in Edinburgh today (3 March 2009). SNAPY is a three year project bringing together professionals who work with children affected by their own or someone else's drinking to share good practice, skills and resources.

It is estimated that at least 65,000 children in Scotland are living with the effects of parental alcohol misuse. These children have to cope with their parents' unpredictable behaviour, rows, neglect, or domestic violence, can feel ashamed and often under-achieve at school.

SNAPY aims to promote improved and earlier identification, better communication between different agencies, and better informed practitioners to help improve these children's lives.

The launch conference will give those who work with children affected by alcohol an opportunity to hear and discuss the issues that matter most. Over 150 delegates will hear about new approaches, share experiences and give their views on how to help shape the SNAPY network.

Jack Law, Chief Executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland said:

"SNAPY is an important initiative which will bring together workers from across Scotland so they can exchange ideas and good practice on how best to support children and young people affected by alcohol misuse."

For more information visit www.snapy.org.uk