We need to change attitudes on drink
Jun 20 2009 by Helen Rae, The Journal
A GROUP working to reduce the levels of binge drinking amongst youngsters said it was important to change people’s attitudes towards alcohol.
The organisation, Sub 21, is a joint initiative between Newcastle Primary Care Trust, Northumbria Police and North Tyneside Council to reduce the levels of alcohol consumption in young people.
Jan Thompson, lead on the Sub 21 initiative, said a worrying trend was developing within the younger community who drank in the streets and she welcomed the initiative of a public health debate into the issue.
Research in the region found many young people were buying alcohol and drinking in the streets because there was a lack of alternative activities.
Drinkers and non-drinkers alike are being asked to take part in the North East Big Drink Debate, which was launched this week by Balance – the country’s first ever regional alcohol office – and supported by The Journal. The debate aims to provide a comprehensive study of the area’ssrink habits by encouraging members of the public to fill in a questionnaire.
Ms Thompson, who is also public health specialist for North Tyneside Primary Care Trust, said: “We know from the work we’re doing in North Tyneside that to change people’s relationship with alcohol it’s important to first understand the reasons behind their drinking habits.
“The research we carried out to inform the Sub 21 initiative was focused on young and under-age drinkers in particular and it directly influenced the approach of the project.
“Young people told us that they bought alcohol and drank in the streets because it was relatively easy and cheap to get and because there was a shortage of alternative activities, so we set about creating fun, free opportunities for young people to take part in.
“The Big Drink Debate that Balance are running will help us get a better understanding of the local population’s attitudes towards, and relationship, with alcohol.
“We hope that people take the time to give their views in the debate. The results will help to inform future approaches to address alcohol misuse, in ways which people they tell us will work for them.”
Director of Balance Colin Shevills said: “We want to hear everyone’s opinions, from non-drinkers through to couples who routinely drink a few glasses of wine at night, to those who are fixtures at their local bar. Whatever your age, whatever your drinking habits, we want to capture your views.”
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