Drinkaware consults parents

Drinkaware's Chris Sorek and Linford Christie

Industry-backed charity in kids & booze debate

The thorny subjects of drinking, young people and the role parents should play in educating their youngsters about alcohol were tackled at an event hosted by British industry-backed charity Drinkaware yesterday.

Issues including minimum pricing, at what age young people should be introduced to drinking at home, and how to tackle underage drinking were discussed at the event, held in conjunction with The Guardian.

“Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s attitudes towards alcohol, so it’s essential that we give them an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns,” said Drinkaware chief executive Chris Sorek.

The event hosted a focus group of parents of children and young people aged between 10 and 17 and an expert panel including children’s minister Dawn Primarolo and Olympic gold medallist Linford Christie.

“By listening to parents, Drinkaware hopes it can better understand their needs and support them in their role, which can in turn help to prevent alcohol related harm among young people,” added Sorek.