Gwent Police joins partners in new community alcohol awareness initiative

Chief Inspector Stevie Warden attended a launch event for a new community alcohol partnership aiming to tackle underage drinking and promote an alcohol-free childhood.

We’re working with partners in Caerphilly on a new initiative aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking.

The new project, which forms part of our Respect Rhymney initiative, brings ‘together local authorities, youth services, police, schools, retailers, and healthcare providers to address the risks associated with underage drinking and protect the health and well-being of children and young people.’

Chief Inspector Stevie Warden, who attended the launch event at Penallta House on Thursday 17 October, said:

“This new partnership will encourage open conversations about the dangers of alcohol, and work with schools to educate students on making responsible choices.

“By focusing on prevention, we hope to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to resist the pressures of underage drinking and other harmful behaviours.

“Through Respect Rhymney, we’re carrying out a number of policing operations to clear the area of serious crime and anti-social behaviour, but also delivering engagement opportunities so that we instil on our younger residents the important part they play in helping to build safer communities.”

Kate Winstanley, Director of CAP, said: "We know from extensive research that underage drinking can have serious consequences, from disrupting education to leading young people into risky behaviours like drug use, violence, and long-term health problems. By working together, we can help steer children and young people towards an alcohol-free childhood."

She added: "CAPs have a proven track record of reducing alcohol supply to minors, curbing alcohol-related anti-social behaviour, and lowering underage street drinking. It’s incredibly rewarding to see local partners unite to protect our children and young people and help them lead healthier, safer lives."

For more information on the project, visit Caerphilly County Borough Council’s website.