Take A Drink - DVD Project

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It will be used to teach secondary school pupils, aged 12 to 18, about the dangers of abusing alcohol. The idea of the DVD came about after a series of police led initiatives held in secondary schools where pupils were asked for their views on how best to get the message across to young people.

It was filmed within the Paisley area by PACE, a locally based theatre company, who are renowned for their work with young people.

It is hoped the new resource will be used by other organisations all working towards improving the health and wellbeing of young people across Renfrewshire and reducing antisocial behaviour within the community.

The narrative of the DVD follows a group of young people over the course of one eventful night out and features the various scenarios they could possibly become involved in as a result of drinking too much alcohol. These include violent crime, sexual health issues and the consequences of making the wrong choices.

A number of professionals, who dealt with the consequences of alcohol misuse during their careers, will also appear in the film.

Strathclyde Fire & Rescue, the NHS, the A&E department of the Royal Alexandra Hospital, the Scottish Ambulance Service and Paisley South Housing Association have all been actively involved with the project which was introduced into the school curriculum for the start of the new school year in August.

Chief Superintendent John Harkin, divisional commander for Renfrewshire and Inverclyde said:

“An important part of policing is engaging with young people, gaining their trust and helping them make the right choices in life. The aim of this DVD is to highlight the devastating impact alcohol can have on a young person’s life. We hope that by giving them an insight into the problems caused by drinking and getting drunk, they can make the correct choices about their personal safety and health. I am grateful to all our partners who have contributed to the production of this DVD.”

Councillor Brian Lawson, Renfrewshire Council's Community Safety Spokesperson, said:

“This innovative project will involve young people and put across important health and safety advice in an entertaining and challenging way. It's often young people who are themselves the victims of alcohol misuse and this project will be part of a range of advice and support to inform young people to make safe choices in the way they live their lives.”

‘Take a Drink’ writer and director, PACE’s David Wallace said:

“Featuring a cast of very talented members from PACE Youth Theatre, ‘Take a Drink’ was devised after weeks of workshops and discussions with young people about the real problems facing them involving alcohol and negative peer pressure. Our hope is that this project will go some way towards helping young people in similar situations to make the right choices.”

Press release: Thursday 18 September 2008