Originally Posted by Kate07
I think you also have to concerns for when the baby is born. If Mum is unable or unwilling to stop drinking and smoking during pregnancy, she most likely will continue after the baby is born. Babies need a carer who is unaffected by drugs or alcohol and sounds like Mum might not be willing to do that. Is there another carer who will be able to step in when Mum is taking her time?
Secondly;

I just want to say (as a healthcare professional and also as someone who worked in the field of Alcohol and Other Drugs for a long time) that every parent has the right to prove they are a good parent. Just because someone has a substance abuse issue, please do not assume they are bad parents. You do not know the finer details of their habit. It may be that they only use when the children are asleep (and somewhat safer than during the day when they are awake and running around). It may also be that they only use when the children are away. But please, do not brand someone a bad parent simply because of their extra curricular activities - give them a chance to prove themselves first.
MG
My post did not say anything about being a bad parent, and that was certainly not how i intended it to be interpreted. However, i stand by my statement that if a parent is impaired by alcohol or drugs and unable to care for their child, someone needs to be there for the child, at the times when Mum is unable to provide care. This might be her partner or a friend but the child needs to be cared for.