Alcohol

The Home should be an alcohol-free zone; alcohol should not be brought or kept on the premises and children should not normally be taken into licensed premises, unless it is part of a clear plan leading toward independence or on a special occasion; e.g. Christmas. In any case, children will not be allowed to purchase or consume alcohol.

Alcohol is potentially dangerous since it reduces concentration and impairs responses. It can also have carry risks including dependency, and can lead to reckless behaviour if abused. Children are particularly susceptible to alcohol abuse and need to understand the risks associated with alcohol consumption and how to manage them. Alcohol consumption is expressly forbidden by certain religions and is unacceptable to many people.

Alcohol will not be brought into or consumed in any children’s home. Staff will not purchase alcohol for consumption by children. All children will receive information and education about the potential harmful effects of alcohol. Those who are not of an age to purchase alcohol will be discouraged from doing so. Those who are old enough and wish to do so will be encouraged to adopt a sensible approach to drinking.

Children’s needs in connection with alcohol consumption should be addressed through health promotion activities in co-operation with the home’s health advisors, and addressed in care planning and assessment and action records. The importance of staff as role models is central to their caring duties, and they must display at all times a responsible attitude towards drinking.

Parents and visitors should be asked to support the efforts of staff to encourage children to develop a sensible approach to drinking alcohol.

Staff will not consume alcohol whilst on duty, nor arrive for work under the influence of alcohol. If a worker arrives at work whose behaviour suggests that his / her ability to perform their duties has been impaired by drinking will be sent home and the matter investigated under the disciplinary procedures.

This procedure applies equally to circumstances where staff are working with children outside their establishment.

If staff are concerned that a child/young person has been drinking alcohol, this should be raised with the Home's manager and the child's social worker as required.

Where it becomes evident, or it is suspected, that a child or young person has been drinking alcohol, the most appropriate response will vary dependent on how much the young person has had to drink or how it has affected them. These options are outlined below:

• Offering fluids - water, squash;
• Periodic monitoring and checks by staff - 10 minutes, 30 minutes, hourly, etc.
• Contacting health professionals for advice e.g. G.P.;
• Hospitalisation for day patient or overnight stay if appropriate, etc.

Useful Websites

Drinkaware

Alcohol, Young People and the Law (GOV.UK)