There are 2.6 million children in the UK living with an alcohol-dependent parent, according to new figures released by the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacoa).

The charity, which advises and supports children of alcoholics, says it also saw an increase in the number of requests for help it received last year, with more than 20,000 calls.

Despite these numbers, the issue is still largely invisible, with many children unwilling or unable to get the help they need, leading to issues that can persist long into their adult lives.

The charity says children of alcoholics are six times as likely to witness domestic violence, three times as likely to consider suicide, and twice as likely to experience problems at school.

Nacoa ambassador Josh Connolly told Sky News: "To young people who might be struggling with a parent who drinks too much we like to say 'you are not alone in your struggles and you are justified in the way you feel'... and that help and support is there."


Nacoa is celebrating Children of Alcoholics Week, an international campaign to raise awareness of the millions of children affected by a parent's drinking.

Image: Nacoa was contacted by more than 20,000 youngsters last year

Some of the patrons of the campaign have shared their experiences to "break down the conspiracy of silence" around children of heavy drinkers.

One of them is shadow health secretary Jonathan Ashworth, who said: "I'm delighted to support and be associated with Children of Alcoholics week.

"Two years ago, following the inspirational lead of friends like Liam Byrne and Caroline Flint, I chose to speak out publicly in a Parliamentary debate about my own circumstances growing up with an alcoholic father.

"Since that moment I've been a passionate supporter of this cause helping persuade the government to allocate some funding to help children of alcoholics."

Arsenal and England football star Tony Adams said: "As a recovering alcoholic, I know what it's like to hit rock bottom and survive. I support COA Week because children living with parents who drink too much need to know there is hope and there are people and places that understand and will help and support you."

A third is Calum Best, TV star and son of football legend George Best, who during the 1960s and 70s was one of the most celebrated sporting stars of his era but became notorious for his battle with drink.

George Best died in 2005 at the age of 59 after complications caused by a liver transplant, which he needed after his alcoholism caused failure of the organ.

Calum, who was often pictured in the press with his father during his hard drinking days, told Sky News: "My dad was a heavy drinker... for every good time I had with my dad, there was always a bad time that sadly overshadowed it because of the drinking involved."

He added: "Having an alcoholic parent, you try to figure all sorts of things out. And the answers are limited."

:: If you feel emotionally distressed or suicidal please call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.