Dear Suzie, I dont know where else to turn, I have been having a terrible time with my only child, the problem is that all this started when she was 16 and she is now 18 nearly 19 and there doesnt seem to be anyone who wants to help families with young adults unless they have a drug or alcohol problem. I am frightened that our relationship is breaking down beyond repair and I am going to lose her for good, she has moved out of the family home and we havent spoken for six weeks now. It is complicated and I would desperately like to talk with someone for guidance but who?? I am willing to travel and pay fees, but it is a lottery and I am frightened that I might spend time and money with someone who isnt very good. I have seen your programs and you seem very good at what you do, could you advise or recommend anyone or any association?
Yes I can and please don’t despair; you aren’t alone. There is an excellent charity that is there for anyone in a parenting situation – and by that I mean it’s for grandparents and foster parents and stepparents as well as birth parents. And they’re there for you whether your child is 9 days or 19 years old! It’s called Parentline Plus, and is the first and best place for help with any parenting or family dilemma.
Their Helpline is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day every day of the year; it’s on 0808 800 2222. You can write to them at Unit 520, Highgate Studios, 53-79 Highgate Road, Kentish Town, London NW5 1TL or go to their website at www.parentlineplus.org.uk to read or download a range of helpful materials, or contact them by email. They offer a range of support from one to one phone counselling to phone conference calls with other parents and face to face courses, all FREE. I can highly recommend them – and that’s not just because I happen to be a trustee!
Please, give them a call at once, and access their website to see what’s on offer. I do promise you they can help as much as I would if we could be in touch. Good luck!