The officers advice on underage drinking – UK
Guidelines for parents and young people
Patrick Butler guardian.co.uk, Thursday 29 January 2009 12.55 GMT Article historyThe chief medical officer, Sir Liam Donaldson, today issued a five-point guide the consumption of alcohol by children and young people
His advice is:
1. An alcohol-free childhood is the healthiest and best option – if children drink alcohol, it shouldnt be before they reach 15 years old
2. For those aged 15 – 17 years old, all alcohol consumption should always be with the guidance of a parent or carer or in a supervised environment
3. Parents and young people should be aware that drinking, even at age 15 or older, can be hazardous to health and not drinking is the healthiest option for young people. If children aged 15 – 17 consume alcohol, they should do so infrequently and certainly on no more than one day a week
4. The importance of parental influences on childrens alcohol use should be communicated to parents, carers and professionals. Parents and carers need advice on how to respond to alcohol use and misuse by children
5. Support services must be available for children and young people who have alcohol related problems, and their parents