The first part of the guidance sets out what is currently known about the extent of parental problem drug use and the impact on children. The second tackles the complex area of confidentiality and offers advice to agencies about when, and how, to share information. Part 3 outlines what agencies need to ask of families when they present with drug problems.
The subsequent two parts provide guidance to staff on assessing and identifying risks to children, and on what kinds of help may be needed. Each local Drug Action Team is advised to work closely with the Child Protection Committee to put in place joint policies and procedures for addressing the needs of children in these families.