University study prompts new strategies on underage drinking
A series of strategies to control "binge-drinking" have been suggested in a study of drinking habits among 15 and 16 year-olds.
The report from the Centre for Public Health (Liverpool John Moores University) and Trading Standards North West suggests Challenge 21-style proof-of-age checks should be adopted by all licensed premises, that more investment should be made in policing underage sales and tougher penalties for outlets selling to children.
The academics also want parents to provide more responsible role models for children and to monitor more closely their children's behaviour.
Key findings of the survey included:
- nine out of 10 of those questioned drink alcohol
- of those who drink, nearly 40 per cent usually drink more than five drinks in one session - which the report's authors define as "binge-drinking", a quarter are frequent drinkers (two or more times a week) and half drink in public settings (bars, clubs, streets, parks).
- children who purchase their own alcohol are almost six times more likely to drink in public places, nearly three times more likely to drink frequently and almost twice as likely to binge drink than those who drink but do not buy their own alcohol.
-older siblings and friends, and adults contacted outside of shops, are frequent sources of alcohol for schoolchildren. Where these methods are used to acquire alcohol, there are increased levels of binge, frequent and public drinking.
- where parents provide alcohol to their children, such children are less likely to binge drink and to drink in public places.
Commenting on the study, the British Beer & Pub Association's regional secretary in the North of England Lee Le Clercq said: "This highlights the urgent need for changes in attitude.
"Any person who is lucky enough to appear to be under 21 should, on every occasion they attempt to purchase alcohol, expect to be asked to provide proof that they are over 18. 'Challenge 21', as this nationwide initiative is called, must be embraced by every licensee in the land.
"While the price of alcohol in general has risen at a rate above inflation in the last 20 years, there is no doubt that very cheap alcohol is available, particularly in the supermarket sector and this is undoubtedly a factor in the worrying statistics that this report uncovers."
