Children and Young People (5-24)

This is a briefing on what works for children and young people in preventing alcohol and drug use and related harm. It relates to interventions for individuals between the age of 5 and 24. However, it is important to note that there is a large cross over between this and the briefing on pre-birth, infancy and early years, as well as some crossover with the adults briefing.

Need to Know 

• Adolescence represents a period of vulnerability to alcohol and drug use issues and related harm.
• The earlier a young person begins alcohol or drug use, the more likely they are to develop alcohol and drug issues later in life. 
• Those with greater number of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) may have a higher risk of developing certain problems later in life including issues around alcohol or drug use. 
• Care-experienced children and children whose parents have issues with alcohol and/or drug use are particularly vulnerable groups.

Key Findings

• Successful preventative interventions engage children and young people in their design and development.
• Sessions for children and young people need to be interactive. Lectures that primarily provide information are ineffective for most. 
• A focus on developing protective skills, values and attitudes is effective. Fear arousal does not prevent alcohol and drug use in children and young people. 
• The individuals delivering an approach – teachers, psychologists, mentors, peers – need on-going, high-quality training and support and where possible have clear alcohol and drug policies in place to deal with any alcohol and drug incidents. 
• One intervention approach might not fit all. The age, developmental stage, circumstances and needs of each child or young person within a targeted group need to be considered when designing and delivering a prevention programme.