* to persuade the parent not to drive and to accept the offer of help by calling a family member or a taxi or giving them a lift home
* to ensure the children are not upset
* to manage the incident so tactfully you retain your professional
relationship with the family.
Although these incidents are fortunately very rare, staff need to know what to do so they do not mishandle parents who quite obviously might be volatile.
* Staff should report their suspicions to the most senior staff member on duty and that person should confront the parent discreetly and take them aside for a quiet word.
* Help them recognise there is a problem. If necessary, mention the risks of drinking and driving and the prevalence of police checks in the locality.
* Help them solve the problem by offering practical help.
* On the next meeting, treat them normally: there was a problem and you helped them deal with it. Avoid being disapproving or over-familiar.