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Fewer underage drinkers than parents think says study

Parents in Wales are over-estimating the number of young people who drink alcohol

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Study highlights 'perception gap' says alcohol trust

The need for education on the reality of underage drinking is highlighted by a recent study says Helena Conibear, Director of the Alcohol Education Trust.

These findings reveal the perception gap between parents' views of children's drinking and the reality. This emphasises the importance of education initiatives in ensuring parents, as the key suppliers of alcohol to those under the age of 18, are aware that drinking, particularly under the age of 15 is not the norm.

– Helena Conibear, Director, Alcohol Education Trust

Call to help parents talk about alcohol with children

The President AB InBev UK & Ireland says findings that show parents overestimating the number of underage drinkers highlight the need for them to have support in talking to their children about alcohol.

Today's poll highlights the gulf between parents' perceptions of young people and how they actually behave towards alcohol. That's why it's so important that parents are given all the help they need to talk to their children about responsible drinking.

– Inge Plochaet, President, AB InBev UK & Ireland

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Study: 39% of 11-15 year-olds have tried alcohol

There are fewer underage drinkers than parents think according to a new sudy Credit: PA

A study showing that parents in Wales are overestimating the number of 11-15 year-olds who think it's okay to get drunk has also found they're overestimating the number who've tried alcohol.

On average, parents in the UK think 57% of 11-15 year olds have tried alcohol. The actual figure is 39% of 11-15 year olds - but 7 in 10 parents thought it was higher.

Despite the underage drinking being in decline, today's poll reveals 70% of parents across the UK believe it has increased compared to five years ago.

Parents 'overestimate alcohol consumption'

Underage drinking is 'in decline'. Credit: David Jones/PA

Parents in Wales are over-estimating the number of young people who drink alcohol.

According to new figures, from the Alcohol Education Trust, less than a quarter of 11 to 15 year olds think its okay to get drunk.

But parents here thought the figure was much higher.

Official figures show there's currently a downward trend in the number of young people trying and drinking alcohol

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