“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.
“The Drinkaware website offers alcohol-awareness information for parents and professionals working with young people, making it easier to address drinking issues with youngsters. They can go to http://www.drinkaware.co.uk/talking-to-under-18s
