United Kingdom: Underage drinking reaches ‘record low’ in UK
By Melita Kiely
December 18, 2017
Alcohol consumption among eight to 15-year-olds in the UK has dropped to “record lows”, falling by 67% since 2003 according to a new study.
The figures, published on NHS Digital, were sourced from 12,051 pupils in 177 schools, who completed questionnaires in the autumn term of 2016.
In 2003, 45% of children in this age group reported having tried an alcoholic drink. In 2016, this percentage had dropped to 15% – a 67% decrease.
The data also showed that half (50%) of children between the ages of 11 and 15 thought it was acceptable to try alcohol to see what it’s like, down from 67% in 2003.
Furthermore, 19% of 11-15-year-olds said it was fine to get drunk to see what it’s like, compared to 31% in 2003.
Drinks industry trade body the Portman Group welcomed the news.
John Timothy, chief executive of the Portman Group, said: “This is really welcome and encouraging news. Underage drinking has now hit a record low with children today significantly less likely to drink alcohol or think that getting drunk is okay than previous generations.
“Parents and guardians have played a key part in this education process and Christmas is a great opportunity to reinforce these important messages and show that alcohol can be enjoyed responsibly over the festive period.
“Drinks producers and retailers have put a huge amount of effort into tackling underage drinking through robust ID schemes, Community Alcohol Partnerships and effective self-regulation of alcohol marketing and we are now seeing the positive impact these interventions are making.”