Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day is observed annually on 9th September, symbolising the nine months of pregnancy. Brighton and Hove City Council is inviting everyone to join throughout September in raising awareness about the importance of alcohol-free pregnancies and signposting to support services.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) refers to the range of neurodevelopmental problems caused by pre-natal exposure to alcohol. The effects are diverse and impact on the individual throughout their life course. The risk of FASD increases the more alcohol is consumed during pregnancy. There’s no proven ‘safe’ level of alcohol in pregnancy; not drinking at all is the safest approach.
This toolkit
This toolkit was developed by Public Health, Oasis Project and Partners in Change Substance Use. It brings together resources, suggested social media messaging, evidence-based information and signposting to local services. FASD Makes Me, Me animation has been co developed with input, advice, feedback and ideas from young people with FASD, their siblings and parents/carers from the FASD Hub Scotland community FASD Makes Me, Me – YouTube
- September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder awareness month. FASD is a range of lifelong disabilities that can occur as a result of drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Everyone can play a part in supporting alcohol-free pregnancies. Show your support for your pregnant partner or friends, be prepared and offer non-alcoholic alternatives; be proactive and think of activities that don’t involve alcohol; show solidarity and go alcohol-free with them during their pregnancy
- With no known safe level of alcohol in pregnancy, by stopping drinking you’re taking a step to keep your baby healthy and safe. Going alcohol-free doesn’t mean you need to miss out on socialising. Check out these tips for an alcohol-free pregnancy Tips for an alcohol-free pregnancy | Tommy’s
- Pregnant or planning to be? Going alcohol-free is the safest choice for your baby’s health. Even small amounts can affect development—so why risk it? You’ve got this, and support is here nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/drinking-alcohol-while-pregnant
- Worried about drinking during pregnancy? You’re not alone and support is available. If you’ve found it hard to stop drinking, either now or in the past, reaching out early can make a big difference for you and your baby. In Brighton & Hove, you can self-refer to Oasis Project, Sussex One-Stop Clinic or CGL. You’ll be prioritised for assessment and support, with access to enhanced care throughout pregnancy. Seeking help is a protective step. The earlier you get help, the more time you have to make positive changes for a healthy pregnancy and a thriving family Alcohol and substance abuse during pregnancy
- If you drank alcohol before pregnancy, or are at an early stage of recovery, then thinking about drinking briefly or experiencing a longer craving during pregnancy is to be expected. Check in with yourself. How do you feel? Think HALT! Am I Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired? If the thoughts persist and you are curious about your relationship with alcohol there are lots of books and podcasts available, as well as a thriving recovery community, both locally and online Your complete guide to online peer support | Drinkaware
- Top tip to make an alcohol-free pregnancy easier. Try keeping a jug of refreshing drink in the fridge—think homemade lemonade, cucumber & lemon water, fruity squash, cold herbal tea, or just chilled water Tips for an alcohol-free pregnancy | Tommy’s
- Going alcohol free during pregnancy isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be dull. Here are 5 delicious mocktails to try this #FASDAwarenessMonth – share with friends and make a difference, one sip at a time. View the recipes here https://rb.gy/v2x8w
Information about alcohol during pregnancy
- NHS FASD: Gives information about prevention, as well as diagnosis, treatment and support for babies and children with FASD: Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder – NHS
- Tommy’s: A charity working across the whole pregnancy journey, and working towards making pregnancy safer for all: Alcohol in pregnancy | Tommy’s
- Drymester: Supporting alcohol-free pregnancy. Downloadable free posters, social media images and resources: What is FASD? – #DRYMESTER | Helping Parents-To-Be Go Alcohol Free
- Drinkaware: Information and advice for parents-to-be about alcohol during pregnancy: Alcohol and pregnancy | Drinkaware
FASD support and resources
Local organisations
- Amaze: Information and signposting for parents of children that have or are suspected of having Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) – Amaze Sussex
- Oasis Project: Substance use and addiction support and services for women, children and families. Oasis Project – We give hope to people affected by drugs & alcohol.
- One Stop Clinic: University Hospitals Sussex One-Stop Clinic offers judgement-free support from midwives, doctors and other specialists who can support you and your baby. Alcohol and substance use – University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust
- Change Grow Live: Recovery-focused drug and alcohol support in Brighton and Hove. Info – Brighton and Hove Recovery Service | Change Grow Live
Training for professionals
National Organisation for FASD: This CPD-accredited E-course is free to access for Maternity Teams and contains the most up to date guidance for practitioners. National organisation for FASD