While there have been official government drinking guidelines for adults for many years, there has been little guidance for under-18s and their parents. This advice is based on extensive research done by a panel of experts and published in January 2009 by the Chief Medical Officer, Sir Liam Donaldson.
An alcohol free childhood is the healthiest and best option however, if they do drink it should not be until they are at least
15 years
15 - 17 year olds should only drink when they're supervised by a parent or other adult.
If 15 - 17 year olds drink, they should do so infrequently and definitely on no more than one day a week. Parents and young people should be aware that drinking, even at age 15 or older, can be dangerous
to health. Not drinking is
the healthiest option for
young people.
The importance of parents influence on their children's drinking should be made clear. Parents and carers need advice on how to respond to alcohol use and misuse by children. Support services must be available for young people who have alcohol-related problems and
their parents.