We are pleased to note that the strategy includes the need to support individuals about healthier and responsible drinking - to help them make the right choices for themselves and their families. However, the role for families in the strategy seems to be one exclusively for parents - to prevent young people's drinking to excess. Whilst this is crucially important, it misses the point that drinking behaviour can and does have an impact on other family members and friends, including children. This impact on the social, financial and emotional health and well-being of close relationships is not necessarily confined to those who are receiving treatment for dependent alcohol use, or even those who are drinking to hazardous or harmful levels. The hazard and the harm are often borne by those around the drinker.
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