Families’ stories
A mother’s journey into FDAC
Produced in partnership with RealityArt, and former FDAC parents, this short film tells the story of a Mother coming into a Family Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC) as she enters care proceedings. It recognises the trauma and complex challenges that can lead families to be in contact with children’s services, whilst highlighting the opportunity of a the compassionate, problem-solving approach that FDAC offers — creating space for support, recovery and the possibility of lasting change.
Children’s Voices: Insight from Gloucestershire FDAC
This infographic offers an opportunity to better understand children’s experiences of working with the Gloucestershire FDAC team. It brings together reflections and insights that form part of their stories — highlighting how children experience support, change and the impact of FDAC during care proceedings. Through their perspectives, we gain a clearer understanding of what matters most to children and how specialist, problem-solving approaches can shape their journeys.
Carla's story
“At first I thought the judge would judge me badly, take my children away and tell me to get out. Instead he was soft spoken, and I found the trust in him. I was used to people always being shouty with me. The judge got me talking, he wanted to hear about myself and what was wrong. I was scared of telling him to begin with and for about four months I wouldn’t and then one time in court I got very emotional and thought I would tell him. I was very surprised because I found that he was even nicer to me then.”
Parent quote
“When I first joined FDAC, I felt empty, struggling with anxiety… not being able to cope with life stressors such as being a victim of domestic abuse, trafficked to the UK. I had turned to alcohol and I felt worthless. ‘Trial for change’- that’s what FDAC is for, you to change, accept and identify your problem. I was honest, committed to FDAC and motivated to get my son back, able to identify my problem and work on it especially by looking after myself first so as to be able to look after my son. Thanks to the local authority, especially my son’s guardian, for referring me to FDAC as they saw the potential in me... I count myself lucky, because not everyone will get accepted to FDAC or a second chance. If a plane is having a technical issue, you have to put your mask on first so as to be able to attend to your child/children, and that’s what I did in FDAC. I had to break the cycle of what led to me being referred to FDAC in the first place. Thank you FDAC for mending my broken wings, I am able to fly again but this time following the right direction.”