1. The Ombudsmans Expert Group Children of Alcoholics

2. Why children of alcoholics? One in every four children grows up with alcoholism 1. – Living with at least one close family member who is an alcoholic. Hidden problem and affects all level og society. Creates stress and insecurity. Can experience prolonged effects due to their circumstances. Are experts in their own situations. 1.Grant, B. F. (2000). Estimates of US Children Exposed to Alcohol Abuse and Dependence in the Family. American Journal of Public Health, 90, 112-126.

3. The expert group Partnership with SAA - National Center of Addiction Medicine. – Saa provides therapy for children of alcoholics. 8 youth asked to participate in the group. – Between 14 – 18 years old. – Equal gender distribution. – Had all received therapy from SAA. 6 meetings in 4 months. – Psychologist from SAA always available during that period.

4. Procedure World Café Relaxed atmosphere. Café style. Two hour meetings Important to keep the time frame. Refreshments, refreshments.

5. The result Categorized into themes Family and friends. School and education Anxiety and uncertainty Strength

6. Increase education about alcohol and drug abuse for children and adults. Such education should not only be based on youth consumption, it also needs to include what can be done if someone close to the children has the problem. Make available information on alcohol and drug abuse and the assistance that is available for children and their families. Encourage families and professionals to talk to children living with alcoholism and to inform them about the problem, according to their age and maturity. Strengthen the service and support for children of alcoholics. Ensure that children are not discriminated against due to their residence. Ensure that adequate treatment is available for those who struggle with alcohol and drug problems, so that they can get help without delay. Ensure support for children of alcoholics while parents are receiving treatment. The Ombudsmans ideas for improvements

8. ”In a perfect world, there is no alcoholism” www.barn.is