Alcohol Use Remains a Primary Reason for Youth Support Referrals in Guernsey

A charity has reported that alcohol continues to be a primary cause for young people in Guernsey being directed to support services. The Action for Children substance team indicated that 60 to 70 young individuals were referred to them specifically for alcohol-related problems, with 97% of these individuals receiving assistance. Data from the 2022 Young People’s Survey, carried out by the States of Guernsey, revealed that 32% of year 11 students had consumed alcohol within the seven days preceding the survey, marking an 8% rise compared to 2019. The charity also stated that approximately 80% of individuals receiving support from their service have achieved a substantial reduction in their substance use. Action for Children consistently engages with young people who are either experiencing difficulties with substance use or are considered at risk of developing such issues. Aaron Davies, the service manager for the charity in Guernsey, commented: “For some young people, their first encounter with alcohol will be their brain pushing its limits and wanting to take risks.” He added, “But for some young people, they reach out to substances to cope with other issues going on in their life.” The organization provides one-to-one support, operates a dedicated substance use service, and conducts educational lessons within schools. Mr. Davies expressed his intention to explore methods for enhancing services to specifically address those individuals deemed to be at a greater risk of developing substance use problems. He stated, “What we want to see is opportunity for young people to take risks in healthy ways,” continuing, “So it’s looking at how we develop diversionary, positive activity on the island.” Furthermore, Action for Children delivers PSHE [Personal, social, health and economic education] lessons to students in secondary education, aiming to inform them about the dangers associated with alcohol consumption.