FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) is caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy and is a disorder which leads to lifelong complications and disabilities.
We at the All Wales Forum of Parents and Carers are working in collaboration with parent carer group FASD Cymru, to provide FASD individuals and their families with a platform and a voice. We want to start a national conversation about FASD and what we can all be doing to better support families. To this end, we have produced an awareness film called ‘Think Brain, Not Blame’. It is available in English & Welsh and offers an introduction to FASD and provides an insight into what life is like for one child who is living with it. The film was premiered in Cardiff Bay at the Senedd in November 2019.
There are currently estimated to be 370,000 unpaid carers in Wales and across our network of 10,000 carers, we know that families can feel isolated and their contribution can pass without recognition. In our organisation we believe that family carers are the experts on those they are caring for and it can be incredibly empowering when a group of family experts get together. FASD Cymru are exactly that and we were happy to be able to provide them with a platform. We hope that this will be the start of a positive journey for them, as carers and as individuals.
The film depicts the reality for one individual with FASD but we are sure that the thoughts and emotions shown will be relatable to many others and their families across Wales. As you will see in the films, FASD is complex and presents many challenges that can make everyday situations unbearable, but these are often situations that can be improved with the right knowledge, willing and empathy.
English- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kMW05sj7Uo
Welsh- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMr7wWQJM2o
If you would like to connect with FASD Cymru you can search for their group on Facebook ‘FASD Cymru’ or visit their website http://www.fasdcymru.org
