I separated from my husband last year and my son (15) decided to live with him. My ex has an habitual cannabis habit, though of course denies using it. I contacted social services who were really dismissive about it and said they had rung him and he had denied using it (which of course he would). I am really concerned that my son lives with his father who is constantly under the influence and drives my son to school in the morning. Is there anything I can do? Would the police do anything or would they not be interested because it is 'just for his own consumption' and he's not dealing. My husband is an amputee so will play the 'I have phanXXXXX XXXXXmb pains and it helps' card.
Hi, thank you for your question I will assist you with this.
The only real thing that you could do in terms of your son, is to apply to the court for a residence order. However, the court will take into account your son's wishes given his age. Furthermore, a residence order would only apply until he reaches the age of 16.
In light of his age and him electing to go and live with his father and has done for the past year, I would really recommend that you do not go down this route unless absolutely necessary as it could potentially destroy any relationship you have with your son.
I appreciate your concerns regarding your son's wellbeing therefore, what I would recommend is trying to discuss this with your son or by seeking family counseling with him (if you do not have a good relationship), about your concerns for his health due to his fathers use of cannabis. This web page gives you some advise about the effects of cannabis and some help/advice details - http://www.talkingaboutcannabis.com/the-facts/
Unfortunately, you may not achieve the desired result if you do contact the police about your husband - and it may cause further problems between you and him and also with your son.
I am sorry this is not the answer you were probably hoping for, but unfortunately, I believe this would be resolved more effectively as a personal issue rather than a legal one.
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