14 October 2021
Alcohol Action Ireland is pleased to launch ‘End the Silence’ – a series of events and activities from 18 – 26 October 2021 to raise awareness of the issues arising from growing up with alcohol harm in the home.
Why it’s Important:
It is known that at least 200,000 children in Ireland are currently living with the trauma of parental problem alcohol use and a further 400,000 adults are living with its legacy, sometimes playing out with difficulties with emotional, mental and physical health.
Yet, despite these large numbers, this Adverse Childhood Experience remains a deeply hidden aspect of Ireland’s relationship with alcohol.
There are many reasons for this including family dynamics, shame and the wider societal conflict between our image of Ireland as a country which identifies strongly with drinking culture, yet knows there is a huge price to pay for our alcohol use.
The Silent Voices campaign from Alcohol Action Ireland aims to end this silence. In October, they are delighted to partner with other organisations and individuals by looking at the types of supports and interventions which are needed from the home to the classroom and for professionals working in this area.
Who are Alcohol Action Ireland?
Alcohol Action Ireland are a non-profit organisation based in Dublin that champion the dangers of alcohol abuse. Formed in 2003, they are the leading voice in Ireland that wish to reduce alcohol harm. Their work involves providing information on alcohol-related issues, creating awareness of alcohol-related harm and offering policy solutions with the potential to reduce that harm, with a particular emphasis on the implementation of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act.
Alcohol Action Ireland are a resident Carmichael resident organisation. You can check out their website here. They’re on social media too; Facebook, Twitter & YouTube.
The events include:
18 October, Webinar
Online 19.00 – 21.00
Parental Problem Alcohol Use: Living and coping with a legacy of trauma.
Stephanie Brown, PhD. Licensed psychologist, author, researcher, consultant and lecturer in the field of addiction
Public talk followed by panel discussion with the Founding Voices of Silent Voices.
Book your place at:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/184910491257
21 October, film screening.
The Ark, 16.00 – 17.00
A screening of Annika Cassidy’s film ‘Peel’
followed by a discussion with the film maker hosted by one of the Founding Voices of Silent Voices.
Book your place at:
https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/185587215357
26 October
Online 14.00 – 21.00
Where the light enters: hope and healing through trauma informed education.
An afternoon/evening of conversation, learning and reflecting on education, trauma-informed practice, relationships and compassion.
Keynote speaker Gabor Maté.
Online event with Maynooth University for those working in education.
More information on End the Silence at:
https://alcoholireland.ie/campaigns/end-the-silence/
