Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is sometimes misdiagnosed as ADHD, autism, or other disorders. Children and young people who are misdiagnosed are at risk of not receiving the right support, being misunderstood, or even being blamed for behaviours caused by their disability. Foster and kinship carers have difficulty accessing funding for needed services, and lack of support contributes to the risk of adverse long-term outcomes. Aboriginal kinship carers are particularly under-resourced.

This online webinar hosted by CETC and NOFASD Australia was held on 5th September 2022 and included speakers:

• Sophie Harrington – NOFASD Australia – Introduction to FASD and why it’s an issue for Out of Home Care
• Neil Reynolds – Carer and educator – Why it’s important for professionals working in OOHC to understand FASD and what support carers need
• Dr Robyn Williams – Senior Research Fellow, Curtain University – Supporting Aboriginal Kinship Carers in the light of systematic challenges, and some ways forward
• Prue Walker – FASD specialist, CETC – The research – prevalence and impact of FASD in OOHC; diagnosis and implications
• Dr Vanessa Spiller – Clinical Psychologist and carer – An approach to supporting children, young people and families – effective strategies and resources.