Abstract
Julia is the 24-year-old single mother of 6-year-old Luke. Julia abused heroin for many years but is now stable on methadone. You have known her for a while and you share a warm clinical rapport. At a planned review, she discloses to you in confidence that there are some days she is struggling to look after Luke. ‘Just the smallest things like picking him up from school seem so stressful’. He is a boisterous young boy, but always looks healthy and well looked after. Historically, social services have been involved in Luke’s welfare during Julia’s detox. He has never been removed from her care and Julia benefits from the ongoing support of her parents. You decide to question Julia further and learn that she has never left Luke alone and always ensures he is clean and well fed.
Should you have concerns and how might you raise them? Does Julia’s disclosure warrant a telephone call to Luke’s school to check his wellbeing and attendance? If you believe a follow-up consultation is required, what time interval would be appropriate?
ORCID iD
Charlotte Sidebotham https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7269-2734