Bridges Glasgow is an Action Research Service which works to improve the educational outcomes, health and social wellbeing of children affected by parental substance use in the Glasgow area.
Based in Possilpark, the service focuses on working with children and young people whose parents need to develop parenting skills and to enhance their child’s learning and aspirations.
Service aims and what we offer
The aim of Bridges Glasgow is to intervene in the lives of children and parents where there are problematic parental substance issues in order to improve the educational and wellbeing outcomes for the children in a sustainable way.
Bridges Glasgow achieves this by:
• offering a needs-led, flexible service to children and families,
• increasing resilience in children affected by parental substance use,
• promoting the health, educational attainment and social wellbeing of children affected by parental substance use,
• providing a high quality service that promotes inclusion and maximises both parents and children’s potential.
Who we work with
• Parent(s) who have a problematic substance use issue
• Children aged 3-5 and in nursery provision
• Children aged 9 - 12 in primary school
Nurseries and Primary Schools that the service works with are St Theresa’s, Saracen Primary, St Cuthbert’s and feeder nurseries.
General Service information
When children are in full time kinship care arrangements, this service will only be appropriate when there is an expectation that the child will be living with substance using parents within 6 months of beginning work with the family and child. Where there are shared care arrangements, this will be considered.
Outcomes
This service contributes to the following Scottish Government National Outcomes.
• Our young people are successful learners, confident individuals, effective communicators and responsible citizens.
• Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed.
• Our children live longer, healthier lives.
• The life chances for children, young people and families at risk have improved.
• Our children live safe from crime, disorder and danger.
Partnership and Funding
Bridges Glasgow is provided through a partnership between Aberlour and Glasgow City Council.
Agencies that are involved and assist in the service provision of Bridges Glasgow includes Health, Education and Social Services.