An introduction to the Young People and Alcohol Scrutiny Review.
Summary of the Review
During 2009 a Scrutiny Review was undertaken by the council examining alcohol misuse amongst young people under the age of 18.
The review explored:
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Why young people drink
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Where they drink
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Where and how they obtain alcohol
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What would stop young people drinking alcohol
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What would divert them from engaging in alcohol related anti social behaviour and nuisance
Consultation
The council engaged with over 1000 local residents via the Citizens Panel, and key Partners including:
Young people were consulted via a dedicated Youth Forum and other media.
Findings
The Review identified:
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Underage drinking takes place Borough wide, focussed within the Town’s parks and gardens
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Boredom, a lack of activities and peer pressure are identified both by the Citizens Panel and young people as common reasons why under 18s drink alcohol
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Alcohol is obtained by under 18s from parents and proxy purchases, alcohol purchased by over 18s on behalf of under 18s
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Under 18s identified convenience stores as "easiest" venues to obtain alcohol
Actions For The Future
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Enforcement - Take action with the licensed trade to tackle underage drinking.
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Education - Initiates to educate the licensed trade about under age drinking. Inform and educate young people and parents of the consequences of underage drinking
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Diversion - Extend and improve diversionary activities to under 18s to discourage alcohol consumption and related anti social behaviour.
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Harmonise and Target Resources to Tackle Underage Drinking - Mapping exercise of all activities undertaken and policies impacting upon community safety to effectively target alcohol misuse.
Further Information
- in this section - information for alcohol licensees, including our Licensing Policy and Enforcement Policy
- downloads below - a leaflet and set of publicity posters about the Young People and Alcohol Scrutiny Review
- in our Scrutiny section under Related Pages - the full reports for the review
- in our Health and Lifestyle section - alcohol advice for young people and parents, including our local campaign Have Fun, Stay Safe
