Rise in calls to charity fuel concerns over alcohol misuse

The charity, the NSPCC, says it has seen a rise in the number of people reporting substance abuse among adults where children are present.

It says there has been an increase in calls to its telephone helpline, reporting potential substance misuse by people who have children are in their care, or where young people are nearby.

The charity says more than 450 people across the North East and Cumbriarang its helpline in 2015/16, up from 341 calls in 2013/14. The calls include concerns about alcohol, drug and other substance misuse.

The organisation says the issue poses a 'significant risk' for children as it can lead to neglect and abuse. It says some reports have been judged serious enough to alert outside agencies, including the police and children's services.

The NSPCC's Helpline is available on 0808 800 5000