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Drinkaware's response to DSCF campaign highlighting how alcohol can make young people vulnerable

15 Jan 2010

In response to a DCSF campaign which will see comedians highlight how alcohol can make young people vulnerable to dangerous risks, Chris Sorek, Chief Executive of Drinkaware, says:

“Alcohol misuse among young people is no laughing matter but using comedy is a creative way to get people thinking about it. Although not all young people drink, those that do drink are drinking more and more often, putting themselves at risk.

"It’s essential now, more than ever, that we talk to young people about the dangers of alcohol misuse from an early age. Parents aren’t given an instruction manual when they have children and alcohol can be a difficult and sensitive topic to raise. It’s really important Mums and Dads don’t shy away from talking to their children about alcohol. Ideally we should talk to young people about alcohol in the same way we give them information and advice about drugs or safe sex.

“Giving young people and their parents information about the effects of alcohol will help them to avoid compromising their personal safety - such as unprotected sex and walking home alone – as well as long term health conditions such as liver damage, some cancers and depression.

“The Drinkaware website offers alcohol-awareness information for parents and professionals working with young people, making it easier to address drinking issues with youngsters. They can go to http://www.drinkaware.co.uk/talking-to-under-18s”

Ends

For further information please contact:

Becky Medhurst

Communications Officer

020 7307 7453 or 078 2797 1740

bmedhurst@drinkaware.co.uk

Notes to Editors

o Drinkaware (www.drinkaware.co.uk) provides consumers with information to make informed decisions about the effects of alcohol on their lives and lifestyles. Our public education programmes, grants, expert information, and resources help create awareness and effect positive change. An independent charity established in 2007, Drinkaware works with the medical profession, the alcohol industry, government and independent members to achieve its goals.

o The recommended daily unit guidelines are: 3-4 units of alcohol per day for men (a pint and a half of lager) and 2-3 units per day (a 175ml glass of wine) for women.

o Parents and professionals working with children and young people can visit www.drinkaware.co.uk for advice about when and how to talk to young people about alcohol and facts about drinking behaviour among under 18s.

o In accordance with the Chief Medical Officers guidance, Drinkaware advises that ideally all under-18s should enjoy an alcohol free childhood. However, children certainly shouldn’t drink at all before 15 years old and if 15-17 years olds decide to drink, they should be supervised by a parent or other adult, do so no more than once a week and should drink no more than the recommended daily unit guidelines for men and women.

Page last updated by: Root User, 19 Apr 2010.