Safeguarding Month: The Impact of Substance Misuse in Pregnancy – Care for Women, Children and Those Who Support Them

You will gain an understanding of the factors that can contribute to substance use during pregnancy, and of the importance of early identification, effective multi-agency working, and building trusting relationships that encourage women to engage with support services rather than feeling judged or excluded.

The session will also explore:

• The impact of alcohol and drug use on pregnancy, birth and child development.
• Recognising vulnerability and safeguarding concerns for both mother and baby.
• The role of trauma-informed and strengths-based practice.
• Working effectively with expectant parents where there are concerns about substance use.
• Multi-agency approaches to assessment, planning and support.
• Balancing support, risk management and safeguarding responsibilities.
• The emotional impact on practitioners and strategies for maintaining professional resilience and wellbeing.