Parents getting tipsy in front of kids can harm their well-being

Parents drinking in moderation can leave children feeling embarrassed, worried or unrestful, new research shows.

The study, undertaken by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) shows that three in 10 parents admit to having been drunk in front of their children, while half have at least been "tipsy".

The findings provide the first persuasive evidence that even low-level drinking (no more than 14 units a week) can prove damaging to children.

Katherine Brown, the IAS's chief executive, said: "It is worrying that the majority of parents reported being tipsy or drunk in front of their child.

Parent drinking facts from the study:

29 per cent of parents think it's OK to get drunk in front of their children so long as it doesn't happen very often

16 per cent of parents have felt guilty or ashamed of their parenting as a result of drinking

15 per cent of children have asked their parents to drink less

12 per cent of children said their parents paid less attention to them because of their drinking

"All parents strive to do what's best for their children, but this report has highlighted a troubling gap in their knowledge.

"Parents who have a glass or two of wine in the evening deserve to understand how this might affect their children and the steps they can take to minimise this impact."

The report, conducted in association with the Alcohol and Families Alliance and Alcohol Focus Scotland, says children who see a parent drunk are less likely to see them as a positive role model.

The Department of Health said it was aware of the effect parental drinking has on children and was considering what measures to take.

"While no one would want to interfere with the right of adults to enjoy a drink responsibility, we are committed to giving people the information they need to make informed choices about their drinking, which we provide through the UK chief medical officers' guidelines."

Shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth said: "This crucial report highlights that even non-dependent parental drinking has serious health implications on children and families.

"Children are incredibly perceptive of their parent's drinking habits and this analysis must serve as a wake-up call to the government."