Hansard

The final item of business is a members’ business debate on motion S6M-18639, in the name of Rona Mackay, on international fetal alcohol spectrum disorder day and the need for awareness. The debate will be concluded without any question being put. I invite members who wish to participate to press their request-to-speak buttons.

Motion debated,

That the Parliament notes that 9 September 2025 is International FASD Day; understands that FASD, or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, is a preventable neurodevelopmental condition with lifelong cognitive, emotional and behavioural challenges, which occurs when prenatal alcohol exposure affects the developing brain and body; acknowledges reports that 4% of the population are affected, and each person with FASD is affected differently, often requiring lifelong support in education and post school settings to optimise their life experience; understands that, while the guideline in Scotland for pregnant women, or women trying to conceive is, “no alcohol, no risk”, 46% of pregnancies in the UK are unplanned so without better awareness, people may continue their pre-conception lifestyle until they have a positive pregnancy test; recognises the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and intervention; notes that unrecognised FASD can lead to people ending up in vulnerable situations, particularly given reports that many professionals do not fully understand the symptoms and effects of FASD; understands that populations of concern include people in contact with the criminal justice system, care experienced people, people who are homeless, and people with substance misuse issues; notes the view that training for health and social care professionals in identifying possible FASD is vital; considers that the use of Alcohol Brief Interventions for pregnant women is a useful tool in reducing the risk of FASD; notes the view that alcohol producers should be mandated to provide clear written pregnancy warnings on their products, and understands that there is an estimated economic benefit of £1.4 million for each case of FASD that is avoided.