A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial of Intervention for Children and Young People Experiencing Family Substance Use

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF SURREY · Oct 12, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a new way to help children and young people who are affected by family members using alcohol or drugs. The program is called "The Shadows of Tallystick Valley," and it includes a story and activity book designed to improve emotional health and resilience. The study will involve children aged 7 to 14 years who can read on their own, have a family member using substances, and have permission from their parents or caregivers to participate. Participants will either receive the story-based intervention or join a waitlist to receive it later.

During the trial, the young participants will be asked to complete questionnaires before and after the intervention to measure changes in their emotional wellbeing and resilience. This will help researchers understand if the program is helpful and if it can be a useful resource for children facing these challenges. It's important to note that children who are currently harming themselves or have plans to end their life are not eligible to participate. Overall, this trial aims to see if storytelling can be a supportive tool for those who need it most.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Aged between 7 - 14 years;
• • Child: 7 - 10
• • YP: 11 - 14
• • Able to read age appropriate materials independently;
• • Have someone in their family using alcohol and/or substances;
• • Have received parental/caregiver consent to take part in the study;
• • Have an assigned support worker
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • They are below age 7 years or above 14 years;
• • They are currently engaging in self-harm, including all forms of self harm as set out by Mind (2020), and/or have plans to end their life;all forms of self harm
• • Have not given consent to take part in the study;
• • Have not received parent or caregiver consent to take part in the study.