FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). It is caused by alcohol exposure in pregnancy and can affect the developing brain and body of an individual before they were born.
It is now known that alcohol is a toxic substance that easily crosses from the mother to the fetus throughout the pregnancy and disrupts a baby’s development. A developing fetus does not have a fully developed liver, it cannot filter out the toxins from the alcohol and this causes harm. It is now known that there is no safe time, no safe type, no safe amount of alcohol to drink when pregnant.
FASD is a life-long neurodevelopmental condition causing cognitive, emotional and behavioural challenges, often referred to as a hidden disability. Each person with FASD is affected differently and has both strengths and difficulties. They and their families need support to learn FASD-informed strategies to support them in their daily lives.
A recent study in Salford (2021) gave a crude prevalence rate of 3.6% of the population living with FASD. This equates to about 300 babies a year being born in Sheffield.
FASD impacts on maternity, children, young people, and adult services, as well as individuals and families. Evidence suggests that without the correct diagnosis and support an individual is more likely to have a range of issues including poor mental health, substance misuse problems, involvement with criminal justice, homelessness and difficulties with social relationships, education, and employment.
There is no cure for FASD. Adults with FASD have the same problems they had when they were younger. Many need on-going support and help throughout their life. However, with the right support from a young age, given by informed and caring people, children can learn to work with and to understand FASD, and have more positive life outcomes.
South Yorkshire’s FASD aim is:
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