Underage drinking problem in Scotland highlighted with new research

Shocking new research by Scottish Schools Adolescent Lifestyle and Substance Use, has highlighted Scotland’s problem with underage drinking. 

Around 300 school age children are admitted to hospital each year with illnesses relating to alcohol.   The figures, published by the NHS, revealed the full extent of the problem, as a staggering 2,009 children have been admitted to hospitals across Scotland for alcohol misuse in the last 6 years.

The research has prompted comment from Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon, on what the Scottish Government are doing to tackle the problem.  “We have rolled out test-purchasing nationwide to catch rogue retailers who sell alcohol to children”, she said.  “Our proposal for minimum alcohol pricing would see the cheapest ciders, super-strength lagers and low-grade spirits – which are currently being sold very cheaply – go up in price.”
However, Jackie Baille, Shadow Health Secretary insisted that implementing minimum pricing would not tackle the ever growing problem.  She said “Alcohol abuse is the most important public health issue we face in Scotland today.  Fixing minimum prices per unit will do nothing to stop children drinking.  We need measures such as a mandatory scheme in which would be customers will be challenged to prove they are over 25. Licences must be removed from those who sell alcohol to children.”
The research revealed that 31% of the 15 year olds surveyed confessed to having an alcoholic drink in the week prior to the survey.  11% of the 13 years olds surveyed also admitted to having an alcoholic drink in the week before the survey.

Tom Roberts, a spokesman from CHILDREN 1ST commented “The number of kids and young people who get drunk regularly is very concerning.  It is further stark evidence of Scotland negative relationship with alcohol.  Urgent steps are needed to reduce consumption and the damaging impact it is having on our youngsters.”
CHILDREN 1ST are a charity partner of the People’s Postcode Lottery.  The charity provides various support services for young people across Scotland, including education and support for young people who misuse alcohol.