Poster campaign raising issue of alcohol abuse
On display in pubs, clubs, schools and bus shelters, the thought-provoking posters and postcards urge parents to consider how much their teenagers are drinking and what they are doing in their free time. A different version urges young people to think about their friends and how they choose to spend their time.
The campaign aims to improve awareness and communication betwe- en parents and teena- gers about the dangers of alcohol abuse. Cheltenham Borough Council is launching the project on August 26 in partnership with Cheltenham Substance Action Group.
Martin Stacy, housing options manager for Cheltenham Borough Council, said: "The number of young people drinking alcohol has increased a lot in the last few years. And when alcohol is abused it affects judgement and can lead to young people especially engaging in risky behaviour.
"The good news is that parents can make a big difference. Where parents are known to communicate with their teenage children, these children are less likely to engage in risky behaviour."
Councillor Andrew McKinlay, cabinet member for safety, said: "The ultimate aim of this campaign is to make sure young people are safe and healthy. Hopefully it will act as a reminder to both youngsters and parents about the consequences of alcohol abuse."
Dave Jones, deputy chief executive of County Community Projects and chair of the Cheltenham Substance Action Group, said the project is unique in its approach in providing useful and easily accessible information and advice to parents about the dangers of inappropriate alcohol use in young people.
■ The campaign, funded by the Primary Care Trust through the Health and Wellbeing Partnership, is the brainchild of the Cheltenham Substance Action Group.
If people have any concerns about their child drinking alcohol or need advice, contact Young People's Substance Misuse Service on 01452 503186 or visit www.webgini.com
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