We are a small non profit organisation dedicated to supporting children and families affected by FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) in Northern Ireland

Foetal alcohol syndrome is a type of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), the name for all the various problems that can affect children if their mother drinks alcohol in pregnancy.

Symptoms include:

• a head that's smaller than average

• poor growth – they may be smaller than average at birth, grow slowly as they get older, and be shorter than average as an adult

• distinctive facial features – such as small eyes, a thin upper lip, and a smooth area between the nose and upper lip, though these may become less noticeable with age

• movement and balance problems

• learning difficulties – such as problems with thinking, speech, social skills, timekeeping, maths or memory

• issues with attention, concentration or hyperactivity

• problems with the liver, kidneys, heart or other organs

• hearing and vision problems

These problems are permanent, though early treatment and support can help limit their impact on an affected child's life. (NHS UK)