A national initiative designed to tackle under-age drinking is being rolled out in a second Thanet town.
A network of around 360 Community Action Partnerships (CAPs) across the country – including one in Broadstairs launched in 2017 – have proven track records of reducing alcohol harm in children and young people, improving their health and wellbeing and community relations.
Now a Margate CAP is bringing together Kent Trading Standards, Kent Police, councils and shops among others to educate young people about the dangers of underage drinking so they can make responsible choices about alcohol, drugs, and anti-social behaviour and to enforce regulations and prevent the illegal sale of alcohol to under-18s.
This includes stopping illegal ‘proxy sales’ when adults buy alcohol for young people, and ensuring all retailers comply with the proof-of-age scheme ‘Challenge 25’
Kent Trading Standards Operations Manager Jim Whiddett said: “Community Alcohol Partnerships are tried and tested ways to reduce the risk of underage sales which can help cut down drink-fuelled anti-social behaviour.
“The collective efforts of Kent Trading Standards, police, local schools and other partners, to address the issue in Broadstairs and significantly lower under-age alcohol sales recently received national recognition.
“Working together with partners we’ll be aiming to repeat that success and make a difference in Margate so local communities feel protected and legitimate businesses, and the town’s valuable tourist trade, are supported.”
Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, Georgia Foster, said: “I am very proud of the important contribution Kent Trading Standards make to keeping our communities safe and ensuring lawful shops can thrive on the high street.
“Of course, enforcement is only one part of the picture and collaboration really is key to addressing anti-social issues. I’m looking forward to following the progress of the Margate Community Alcohol Partnership.
“I’d also like to remind residents that if you’re worried about under-age alcohol sales where you live, you should report you concerns to the Citizens Advice consumer service. Alternatively, please report them anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”
Kate Winstanley, Director of Community Alcohol Partnerships, said: “We know from extensive research that underage drinking can lead to lots of challenges for young people in their education, relationships, health and increased risk of alcohol-related harm in later life.
“CAP has proved to be a successful model for tackling underage drinking and just as importantly promoting positive health and wellbeing in children and young people. Our evidence shows that CAPs are extremely effective in reducing the supply of alcohol to children, underage alcohol consumption and alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.
“It’s great to see local partners coming together in Margate and we are looking forward to seeing the initiatives make a positive difference.”
Perhaps they can also crack down on dope smoking for ALL ages while they’re at it?
A scheme to ban underage drinking? I thought that there’s a law that bans drinking alcohol until the legal age of 18 is reached.
Why not just enforce the law by arresting the perpetrators and holding the parents to account?
Who is the roid munching poser to our left? The meathead cop who beats up anyone that doesn’t comply?
I used to enjoy a nice shandy during my childhood, beer, Dubonnet, Sherry etc as well.