Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) – identifying and responding in practice with families: Frontline Briefing (2025)
Introduction
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that occurs in the fetus due to alcohol exposure in the womb.
Social care practitioners are likely to work with children and young people with FASD. It is important to consider that Alcohol use during pregnancy occurs in the lives of many families, and an estimated 2–4% of the population are affected (McCarthy et al., 2021). Rates of FASD are much higher for children in care and those who are adopted (Gregory et al., 2015).
Child and family social care practitioners play a pivotal role in prevention, recognising signs of FASD, supporting diagnosis, and advocating for strengths-based support throughout a child’s life and into adulthood.
Professional Standards
PQS:KSS - Creating a context for excellent practice | Assuring good social work practice and development
CQC - Effective | Responsive
PCF - Knowledge | Intervention and skills | Diversity and equality
RCOT - Service users
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