ABSTRACT
In order for children to feel safe and secure it seems to me that they need to experience a reasonable degree of stability which may be provided in a number of ways, not all of which are necessary, but the presence of at least some of which are desirable. This may be stability of carer, of the carer's mood state, of housing and neighbourhood, of nursery or school and of routines for daily living. These factors are most often disrupted when a parent is struggling with mental health issues, drug or alcohol misuse, financial or housing problems, domestic violence and/or transitional relationships. People with significant learning difficulties may also find parenting to be a challenge beyond them unless they have extensive and ongoing support from friends, family and professionals.
