Scheme to Spark new approach to alcohol

The Cumberland Alcohol Partnership, managed by Cumberland Council, has received funding for Spark, a pilot programme empowering young people to become confident, alcohol-free leaders.

The project, starting in September, will benefit teenagers and will recruit role models from local sports clubs.

Cllr Justin McDermott, Cumberland Council's Portfolio Holder for Public Health and Communities, said:

"Spark is a bold new approach to alcohol education - reframing it as empowering, peer-led, and fun. We know both grass-roots sport and the influence of others can be incredibly influential in young people's lives and choices. We need to tap into that influence and meeting them 'where they are' could be a ground-breaking model."

There will sports-related creative learning - the exact content of the sessions is yet to be decided, as it will be shaped by the children and sports leaders involved. The programme will be supported by Cumbria Addictions Advice and Solutions (CADAS), and, it is hoped, could be delivered by other youth and sporting organisations in the future.

Cllr McDermott added: "We have to find ways to challenge the norms of underage drinking - the negative results of which can be health issues, antisocial behaviour, lower aspirations and wasted potential.

"I believe Spark's different approach - working in partnership with young people, using role models and leveraging their existing connections with community sport -  could be transformational."

The scheme's participants, aged 13 to 16, will learn about addiction, vaping, peer pressure, healthy lifestyles, the law, mental health and leadership skills.

Club coaches will also be trained to support and continue the work, and there will be a high-profile ‘alcohol-free match day’ event.

If Spark is successful, it is hoped funding can be accessed for further work, including campaigns created by young people, school events delivered by Spark graduates, an ambassador programme and further alcohol-free match day events.

Kate Winstanley, director of the national Community Alcohol Partnership, said: "This proposal was highly regarded by our review panel, who were impressed with the innovation, potential impact, and detailed planning. We are confident it will make a significant contribution to tackling underage drinking and associated harms in this community, and we look forward to seeing the project come to life."