The Fetal Alcohol Advisory Support & Training Team (FAASTT) has a national remit to provide and guide training, consultation, and research to improve the knowledge and confidence of Scotland’s health and social care workforce in their work with people affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Image FASD is a significant public health concern in Scotland. It's estimated that about 1 in 7 babies in Scotland are at risk of FASD, and its prevalence is estimated to be around 3-5%, which is 3-4 times higher than autism.FASD is an invisible, lifelong disability associated with a range of cognitive difficulties but early diagnosis allowing timely intervention can ensure those affected can reach their full potential. In the absence of diagnosis, FASD is associated with secondary harms including reduced educational attainment, poor mental health, addiction, involvement with the criminal justice system, and premature death from violence, accidents, and suicide. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) has published information about the estimated scale and extent of FASD in Scotland, along with guidance on how to identify and support individuals who were exposed to alcohol before birth in their CG 156 publication (SIGN, 2019). The Team’s remit comprises the following areas: Workstream 1: Training and Education The Team provides training and professional education to enhance the skills of health and social care staff in diagnosing and supporting individuals with FASD and advancing FASD prevention. We currently offer:A Postgraduate Certificate in FASD with three online modules – ‘Understanding FASD’, ‘Assessment and Diagnosis of FASD’ and ‘Advanced Case Formulation in FASD’. All three courses can also be taken individually as continuing professional development. Regular online training in the Fundamentals of FASD for all health and social care practitioners in Scotland Workstream 2: Consultation & Advisory RoleThe Team offer expert advice, peer review and support by: Providing consultation slots for clinicians and service managers.Offering specialist FASD advisory input to government and organisations. Supporting peer review and reflective practice opportunities through a Community of Practice. Organising and engaging with, a National Strategy Group. Organising and engaging with a FASD Reference Group. Workstream 3: Development of an Evidence BaseThe Team are working to establish a solid foundation of evidence for FASD in Scotland through a structured research program. Some of our current research studies include:Conducting a survey across all Scottish Health and Social Care staff to better understand their knowledge, training and attitudes regarding FASD.Studying birth mothers’ opinions and preferences regarding their involvement in FASD research.Conducting a nationwide survey on alcohol consumption, and other risk factors, during pregnancy.Funded by: Scottish Government Find out moreFollow us on TwitterFind out more on our websiteCheck out our upcoming training and eventsGet in touchMeet the TeamProject leads: Dr Suzanne O’Rourke, University of Edinburgh Dr Jennifer Shields, University of Edinburgh Dr Sarah Brown, University of Edinburgh Post-doctoral research fellows & course organisers: Dr Ruth Brown, University of Edinburgh Dr Stewart McDougall, University of Edinburgh Project co-ordinator: Carol Hamilton, University of Edinburgh Other team members: Professor Matthias Schwannauer, University of Edinburgh Professor Moira Plant, Emerita Professor of Alcohol Studies, Bristol University of the West of England Dr Ken MacMahon, Head of Psychological Speciality: Child and Adult Learning Disabilities, NHS Ayrshire and Arran
