Next week is National Alcohol Awareness Week. Island police tell us what they plan. Ed
Police on the Isle of Wight are issuing a fresh warning about the criminal consequences of alcohol.
Next week (October 18 to 24) is national Alcohol Awareness Week, which provides an opportunity to raise awareness of all alcohol misuse issues.
The theme for 2010 is ‘Alcohol and Childhood’ in which national campaigners are asking the question “Is alcohol damaging childhood?’ This theme encompasses the issue of alcohol use by young people, the impact on young people of parental drinking, and the influence of alcohol marketing on young people
Concerns for young people
Isle of Wight Police Licensing Sergeant Mark Voller said: “During Alcohol Awareness Week, the police licensing team will work closely with partner agencies to highlight the dangers of alcohol. We are particularly concerned at the effects of alcohol on young people. For this reason there will be increased enforcement activity in pubs, clubs, off-licences and in public places during that week.
“Drunkenness continues to impact on crime and anti-social behaviour. Most Island licensees sell alcohol responsibly, but police are determined to target those with a casual approach. It is vital that licensees and their staff have a strict policy to prevent the sale of alcohol to under-18s and to customers who are becoming disorderly or drunk. The professionalism of a licensee can benefit the wider community: Where drunkenness is not tolerated, pubs and clubs are not only safer for customers and staff, but there may be less violence, damage and loutish behaviour in the neighbourhood.
“During Alcohol Awareness Week, police seek to identify retailers with a responsible approach, but will take decisive action against those failing to meet required legal or professional standards.”
The Licensing Unit works within the Isle of Wight Community Safety Partnership, which has made a pledge to tackle anti-social behaviour on the island. More information
