Supporting Children of Alcoholics – a Research-Practice-Policy Partnership in a National, Regional and Local Development Program

Introduction: Children living in families with dependency problems face challenges in their daily not just with regards to future alcohol abuse. In Sweden, 2013 only 22 percent of children of alcoholics got any support. Therefore the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions (SALAR) started a development process involving 15 regions/county councils and 40 municipalities with the aim of improving the support to children and their families by social services through improved collaboration.

Methods: A participatory practice-based research program was developed including a mixed-methods approach. Analysis of documents, participatory observations, group discussions and interviews were conducted. The regional research ethical board had difficulties in accepting this innovative research proposal, but after complaint to the national ethical board it was accepted. This presentation will describe the structure and processes that were developed. Voices from professionals, parents and children will also be given.

Results: On the implementation structure: A national implementation team was created by involving SALAR professionals working with strengthening the Swedish dependency treatment and working with the children initiatives. At regional/county level process leaders and development workers collaborated in joint assignments to support locally planned and implemented initiatives to support children and parents in their parenting tasks. A development process needs leadership, clear mandates, time, and support through monitoring and systematic knowledge dissemination.

On the implementation process: The national team successfully developed a participatory developmental process including continuing education program and support structure. At the county level a team of professionals representing development effort for children and dependency issues cooperated in supporting the municipalities in their local plans, which included competence development, development of guidelines and cooperation in families in need. Important aspects of the development process are the mission, structural conditions, personal circumstances, professional development, experience of collaboration, and sustainable processes.

Conclusions: National initiatives need an implementation structure that focus on real changes and sustainability, also important for social inclusion and social justice. Shortcomings in working environment, staff turnover and workload are barriers for successful participation in development work. Development processes need time to become sustainable and making a real difference for the children. Participatory practice-based research is a challenge. Increased collaboration can make a difference according to the voices of children, parents and professionals.