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Research evidence suggests that a large number of individuals with substance misuse problems also have accompanying psychopathology. Some of those individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia may warrant a dual-diagnosis. The clinical area of psychiatric 'dual diagnosis' -that is, serious mental illness associated with substance misuse -is often linked to the 'revolving door' admissions of individuals with this complex comorbidity picture. Often, there is limited sharing of information and cooperation between statutory agencies with reference to this highly vulnerable client group. The shortfall in appropriate clinical response to this client group has been highlighted by previous researchers. This article looks at the role of the specialist dual-diagnosis worker in North Wales and how the appointee to this role has been able to facilitate the seamless transition of these individuals through the 'system' of mental health care.

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This article explores the link between adult substance misuse and the effects such behaviour can have on children in their care. The implications for child development are considered. Child protection implications can be far reaching and children's longterm exposure to adult displays of behavioural loss of control can have detrimental effects upon their development. It is argued that parental substance misuse is not however, sufficient warrant to justify the child protection registration of children. This can act as an obstacle to enabling the parents to seek appropriate clinical intervention for their substance misuse problems (Standing Conference on Drug Abuse, 1989, now Drugscope). This article highlights the combined effect of these interactions on the development of children. Rather than an end in itself child protection assessment, with possible registration, should be viewed as a window of opportunity by agencies to respond to the needs of children with a range of possible responses dependent upon how serious the problems are.

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