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.
Drinkaware