Alcohol Help

Four traders in Bromley caught selling alcohol to under age children have had their licences reviewed following representations by Trading Standards.

Three of the shops had stringent conditions imposed on their licences and one business was suspended from selling alcohol for three months.

The reviews were brought by Trading Standards following repeated sales of alcohol and tobacco to under age volunteers.

Shahs, 32 London Road , Bromley had their licence reviewed following two under age sales of tobacco and alcohol. Nisa Supermarket, 74 High Street, Penge and Kwik Stop, 5 Stanley Way, Orpington were also reviewed following two under age sales of alcohol. In each case the licensing committee imposed number of conditions on the licences including a requirement for staff employed by the businesses to be properly trained, while a Challenge 25 policy regarding age restricted products should be adopted.

Newlands News, 44G Newlands Park, Penge has had its licence suspended for three months from 10 January 2012. The shop had previously attended a review hearing in May 2011 following repeated under age sales. On that occasion conditions were imposed on the alcohol licence. A further test purchase was carried out on 16 July 2011, and although one volunteer was refused the sale of tobacco, a second 16-year-old boy was sold alcohol. As a result a further review was heard on 1 December 2011 resulting in the suspension of the alcohol licence for three months.

Cllr Tim Stevens, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Safety said: “The under age sales test purchasing programme plays a significant part in keeping age restricted products out of reach of young people. As an authority we support local businesses with advice and training but we will take action where it is evident businesses are not doing all they can to avoid illegal sales. A three month suspension is a significant penalty and it should serve as a warning to others to make sure their businesses are properly managed.

London Borough of Bromley
Civic Centre, Stockwell Close
Bromley BR1 3UH

The Priory Hospital Hayes Grove, Bromley
The alcohol programmes are based on the 12-step abstinence model.

About us:

As with all addictive behaviour problems, it is very difficult for a person to acknowledge the existence of a drinking problem and this means that people suffer for many more years than is necessary. It is often confused with recurring depression and high anxiety levels which are not relieved by conventional treatments, and a failure to identify the role of alcohol in these conditions often means a failure to refer for the correct treatment.

How common is it?
Alcohol Dependency is by far the most common addiction and is responsible for the deaths of many thousands of people every year. Government figures suggest that up to 9.7% of the UK population may be classified as dependent on alcohol.

How do I know if I have it?
People who are concerned should always seek professional assessment. The self assessment questionnaire on this site may give further insight. Some symptoms are more easily detected: 1) loss of control once drinking has started; 2) withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild tremors to frightening hallucinations; 3) Noticeable changes in the effects alcohol has on the individual over time.

How do people develop it?
The condition is characterised by the fact that the sufferer, despite many attempts at control, finds that their drinking and the attendant consequences continues to get worse over the period, and the dependent person’s guilt, shame and remorse levels become increasingly more burdensome. Attempts to stop can result in withdrawal symptoms which are relieved by taking more alcohol. Attempts at control (‘just a couple of drinks won’t hurt’) almost always end in drunkenness, and things seem to get progressively worse. In extremes, suicide may seem the best option as depression and severe anxiety coupled with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness often accompany addiction to alcohol.

Can it be inherited?
Although an actual gene has not been identified there is considerable evidence of genetic predisposition to the illness, through studies of twins and apocryphal evidence.

Can it be cured?
Alcoholism is almost impossible to overcome alone, but with the help of others, a large number of people find recovery.

The service includes:

* Free initial assessment with a qualified addictions therapist
* Detoxification programme, carried out under medical supervision to ease the symptons of withdrawal
* Individual and group therapy / counselling
* Educational lectures, workshops and seminars designed to inform the patient of the nature of addiction and to facilitate strategies for recovery
* Holistic activities like meditation and complementary therapies
* Family participation programme
* Free weekly 12 month aftercare programme

Contact Details:

The Priory Hospital Hayes Grove
Prestons Road
Hayes
Bromley
BR2 7AS

Telephone: 020 8462 7722