10/02/2026
Anyone can be affected by parental substance or alcohol use - here are some words from names & faces you may recognise!
💜Craig Revel Horwood, Choreographer
“My dad Philip is an alcoholic. He’s proud of what I do now, but I feel sorry for how he’s turned out. It definitely affected my self-esteem and body issues, which I’ve battled with since my late teens, leading to a lifelong struggle with anorexia and body dysmorphia. Children of alcoholics are three times as likely to suffer with eating problems so I am thrilled to support COA Week. Children need to know they are not alone and there is help so they do not have lifelong struggles with their demons.”
💜Sophie K, Radio and TV Presenter
“Last week the police were called on a house across the road from me about a drunk father beating his 9 year old child. After they left I watched the whole family go back inside and shut the door.
The disease of alcoholism has no gender, no race and no postcode. The only experience which is the same is the children suffer, their little brains learning and developing surrounded by trauma.
As adults they still suffer and struggle with everything from chronic illness to mental health issues. That is why we need COA week. Just because a family can close the door, the child should never be ignored.”
💜Calum Best, TV Star & Entrepreneur
“If I’d known there was someone I could talk to, it would have helped me understand and cope with my dad’s drinking. I want today’s kids and young people to know they are not alone; there are people and places that can help you to live a better life even if your parent continues to drink.”
💜Prue Leith, TV Presenter
“Can you imagine being eleven and lying to hide the truth from your friends and teachers at school, then going home to find your Mum drunk, again, and having to make the supper for your siblings? Or protect them from your drunken Dad? Children are extraordinarily resilient but they need someone like Nacoa if they are to come through a childhood like that.”
Remember, ! Get in touch with us to have a chat:
💜 01484 541589💜
