You, your child and alcohol

That’s the important message going out to local parents to highlight the importance of talking to your children about alcohol before they are introduced to it by someone else.

The ‘You, your child and alcohol’ campaign is the result of a partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Northern Ireland Office, Northern Ireland Policing Board, Public Health Agency (PHA) and Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety all of which are focused on tackling the issue of underage drinking.

The campaign incorporates a mix of TV, outdoor and online advertising along with a booklet for parents and posters all highlighting the dangers of underage drinking.

Welcoming the re-launch of the campaign, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey, said: “Alcohol misuse is one of the biggest public health issues facing Northern Ireland.

“Our children and young people are particularly at risk, as they are far more vulnerable than adults to suffering physical, emotional and social harm from their own and from other people’s drinking.

“This campaign has, and will continue to support and empower parents to talk to their children about alcohol, and help both parents and young people to make healthy and informed decisions about alcohol.”

Assistant Chief Constable Will Kerr added: “We want parents to think about the serious consequences of underage drinking.

“For those young people who commit crime fuelled by alcohol there can be far reaching consequences that can impact dramatically on their future career and even restrict their opportunity to travel.”