2022

‘End the Silence’ – was a series of events and activities from 17-21 October 2022 to raise awareness of the issues arising from growing up with alcohol harm in the home

We know that at least 200,000 children in Ireland are currently living with the trauma of parental problem alcohol use (PPAU) and a further 400,000 adults are living with its legacy – emotional, mental and physical health problems. Yet despite these large numbers this Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) remains a deeply hidden aspect of Ireland’s relationship with alcohol.

Alcohol Action Ireland’s initiative, Silent Voices, seeks to raise awareness and put forward policy solutions to address these issues. 

During the week of October 17 we organised events and leading discussions on PPAU. We heard from a range of experts, highlighting research findings and launched a dedicated toolkit, co-produced by AAI with professionals working in the field and people with lived experience. We hope the toolkit will be used by people across Ireland beyond this week to broaden understanding of this topic and allow people access help and information that will support them in their healing.

The events included:

18 October, Webinar

Through the Eyes of the Child in association with the ISPCC & featuring the launch of a dedicated toolkit by Child Law expert and AAI patron Dr Geoffrey Shannon.

You can watch playback of the webinar here.

19 October, In person event

Silent no more was a cultural in–person event at the New Theatre, hosted by Ray D’arcy. The evening facilitated conversations with people impacted by alcohol use in the home plus readings by noted author Christine Dwyer Hickey from her novel, Tatty – Dublin’s One City One Book in 2020.

You can watch a recording of the event here.
Hear co-founders, Barbara Whelan’s and Carol Fawsitt’s responses to the event here.

21 October, Webinar

Research to Action was an online event exploring practical solutions for young people experiencing PPAU, chaired by Children’s Ombudsman Niall Muldoon and featuring Teacher of Nurture Gerry Diamond.

You can watch playback of the webinar here.

For more information about our ‘Silent Voices’ initiative visit our webpage. 

To download infographics right click on image:

These activities were supported by a generous grant from the Mental Health Grant Scheme for Community and Voluntary Groups.