FASD Assessments in Jersey
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WQ.103/2026
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES
BY DEPUTY C.D. CURTIS OF ST. HELIER CENTRAL
QUESTION SUBMITTED ON TUESDAY 7th APRIL 2026
ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON TUESDAY 14th APRIL 2026
Question
"What assurance can the Minister provide regarding assessments for Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in light of research from the University of Salford in 2021 that at least 1.8% to 3.6% of babies born in the UK each year have FASD, given that such a proportion (if applied to Jersey) suggests between 13 and 25 babies are born each year in the Island with the condition, but only 2 children have completed FASD assessments since the diagnosis service started in 2023?"
Answer
As the number of completed assessments since the local diagnostic pathway was introduced in 2023 suggests, this is a reflection of service activity rather than population prevalence.
Whilst it is accepted that research from the University of Salford in 2021 indicates that at least 1.8% to 3.6% of babies born in the UK each year have FASD, given that the numbers result from research, it would not be the case that every actual case is identified, and this is much the same in Jersey.
This notwithstanding, the team at HCJ has been, and remains keen, to ensure that it will continue to keep demand and referral pathways under review, including levels of referral and service capacity, to ensure that assessment provision remains appropriate to demonstrated local need.