Name: _________________________________________
Date: _________________
Year Group: _________
📊 Key Facts
- Around 44% of 15-year-olds in England have tried alcohol
- Alcohol is the most widely used psychoactive substance among under-18s in the UK
- Binge drinking in adolescence is linked to permanent changes in brain structure
- 40% of A&E admissions for under-16s involve alcohol
- Children of heavy drinkers are 4x more likely to develop alcohol problems themselves
- The UK has one of the highest rates of teenage drinking in Europe
⚖️ The Law
- Under 18: illegal to buy alcohol; illegal for adults to buy alcohol for under-18s in public
- Under 16: not permitted in licensed premises unless accompanied by an adult
- Drunk and disorderly in public: fixed penalty notice or prosecution at any age
- Providing alcohol to under-18s: fine or prosecution for the adult
- Driving under the influence: zero tolerance for under-18s in most EU countries; strict limits in UK
✏️ Think About It: Scenarios
Scenario 1: A friend tells you something worrying about alcohol awareness. What do you do?
Scenario 2: You see something related to alcohol awareness that concerns you. What are your options?
Scenario 3: Someone you know seems to be in a situation involving alcohol awareness. How do you respond?
💡 Key Messages
- Alcohol in adolescence causes more physical and neurological damage than in adulthood
- Social pressure and advertising create false norms around teenage drinking
- Dependency can develop at any age — including as a teenager
- If a parent's drinking is causing harm at home, there is support available — NACOA is confidential
- Choosing not to drink is a valid, informed, and brave choice
🆘 Need Help?
Childline: 0800 1111 (free, 24/7, confidential)
Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (100% anonymous)
CEOP: ceop.police.uk (online exploitation)
Emergency: 999