Alcohol and Substance Use

29 December 2025

There are many reasons why someone may use alcohol or substances, they can have a negative impact on all aspects of life both now and in the future.

You can support your child in more ways than you may realise:

• Be a positive and responsible role model. How you are with your child will influence their attitude towards alcohol and substances before they encounter them.
• Do not be afraid to speak honestly and openly with your child when they ask about alcohol and substances. This may include reasons why people use them socially, and the drawbacks such as hangovers and becoming unwell.
• Do not be afraid to make conversations about alcohol, substances and making safe and appropriate choices part of day-to-day conversation rather than a big one-off discussion. The more you do this, the more your children will know they can approach you for information and support.
• Support your child in making safe and healthy decisions. Be clear about connections between the use of alcohol and substances with self-esteem and confidence. Encouragement to engage in other activities and hobbies will help support the development of self-esteem and confidence.
• Do your own research. Find out what you can about the law, health and safety risks associated with both underage drinking and substance use. This will increase your own confidence with supporting your child.