Real Life

04 December 2018

Grounded: A 14-year-old’s story

PC Claire McNaney

PC Claire McNaney, from Durham Constabulary, regularly sees the impact of under-age drinking. Here she shares a story of a 14-year-old girl, who ended up in hospital after drinking spirits with her friends to warn other teenagers about the dangers of alcohol.

"I am lucky that I can tell my story and that nothing bad happened and that I recovered from this incident."
More real-life stories
What's the Harm? campaign
15 October 2019

Teenagers and alcohol – global pressures and home truths

Our director Colin Shevills talks about what's the right thing to do when it comes to children and alcohol? It’s a question which has perplexed countless parents over the years - himself included.

09 September 2019

Gateshead adoptive mum speaks out about FASD, “the invisible disability”

Helen is a North East mum whose three adopted children were all born with what she calls “the invisible disability.” As part of FASD (Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) Awareness Day, Helen is sharing her story and calling on parents around the globe to have a safer pregnancy.

22 August 2019

New figures show most teenage alcohol comes from the home

We all want the best for our kids - and a common myth among North East parents is that giving our kids a bit of alcohol helps them to handle it better when they’re older. However, a new survey of pupils aged 11-15 gives some food for thought - and suggests too many children are already seeing the ill effects of alcohol and risking their health.