Nacoa (The National Association for Children of Alcoholics), a registered charity (No. 1009143) since 1990, addresses the challenges faced by children affected by parental drinking. Our mission spans all age groups, with issues often surfacing in adulthood. Nacoa's objectives include providing support to affected children, engaging professionals, enhancing public awareness, and promoting research to prevent alcohol use disorder in this vulnerable group. Committed to The Nacoa Promise, our helpline services aim to assist the 1 in 5 children in the UK affected by parental drinking, emphasizing the message, "You are not alone." Often concealed as a family secret, alcohol problems isolate children, leaving them without support.
Laura Leadbeater joined in 2015 as a Volunteer Helpline Counsellor, bringing valuable experience in mental health support. In 2021, Laura assumed the role of Volunteer and Training Manager, overseeing recruitment, training, and support for over 500 active volunteers.
