Drinkaware watches teens backs

Drinkaware has launched its summer youth campaign by opening an alcohol-free “chill-out café” in Cornwall, UK.

Overlooking Fistral Beach in Newquay, the “Got Your Back Café” is aimed at 16 to 17-year olds and is designed to highlight the dangers of excessive drinking.

The café is an informal environment where youngsters can order discounted food, and meet with friends.

As well as boasting table football, DJ decks, TV and Wii games, there will be access to alcohol facts and information and visitors will be encouraged to keep in contact with friends and family via the free internet and mobile phone charging stations provided.

The café has been launched in conjunction with Newquay Safe Partnership, the local council and police.

The Got Your Back campaign aims to encourage groups of friends to watch out for one another on nights out and provide information and advice to keep teens safe.

Chris Sorek, chief executive of Drinkaware, said: “There are identifiable links between alcohol use and unprotected sex, injury and accidents, but all too often this is the last thing on young people’s minds when they’re drinking.

“Working closely with the Newquay Safe Partnership and positioning ourselves directly in the town enables Drinkaware to tackle the issue of excessive alcohol consumption with young people directly.

“With thousands of post-GCSE students set to arrive in the area after exams, the café will provide a sanctuary for teenagers to relax and have fun with their friends while being provided with tips to stay safe.”

Newquay has become a party destination for teenagers celebrating the end of their GCSE and AS Level exams.

Every year around 6,000 students descend on the town and there has been a rise in irresponsible drinking in recent years.

Last year alone two students fell to their deaths from the cliff-tops after drinking too much and another broke his neck in a fall.

A recent Drinkaware poll shows that 39% of parents will provide alcohol for their 16-17-year old child if they are going away this summer.

Over half of these parents admitted giving their child five or more bottles of wine or spirits.

Sorek added: “We recommend parents avoid giving their children alcohol for unsupervised holidays. However, we encourage them to discuss the possible risks of alcohol misuse with their children.

"We know it can be difficult for parents which is why we have a wealth of information and advice available on the dedicated parents area of the website.”

For more information on Drinkaware’s campaign visit www.drinkaware.co.uk/parents

Rupert Millar, 19.07.2010