Sutton Academy students to have workshop on risks of underage drinking

‘Smashed’, an international theatre production developed and presented by Collingwood Learning and supported by Diageo is visiting the academy alongside seven others in the city region.

The scheme combines drama with interactive workshops to help young people understand the facts, causes, and consequences of alcohol misuse and the risks of underage drinking.

The UK as a whole is making progress in reducing levels of underage drinking, however data from the UK Government shows that hospital admissions for alcohol-specific conditions among under 18s in Liverpool is above England’s national average (46.9 per 100,000 versus 29.3 per 100,000).

Each ‘Smashed’ session combines a 25-minute dramatic performance with a 35-minute interactive workshop which allows students to reflect on vital underage drinking themes and answer questions about the choices made by the characters in the performance.

Chris Simes, Managing Director at Collingwood Learning, said: “It’s brilliant to be returning to Liverpool to inspire young people with the Smashed Live programme. These engaging and lively shows have a proven lasting impact and make a real change from the typical classroom session.”

Diageo has long committed to promoting moderation and tackling alcohol harm across the UK. It has supported Smashed since it began in 2005, and has pledged to educate 10 million young people, parents and teachers, globally on the dangers of underage drinking by 2030. The programme, developed in consultation with young people, has proven positive impact.

The latest UK evaluation report found:

• 81% of students are less likely to drink alcohol underage as a result of watching Smashed  

• 80% of students know where to get help about alcohol as a result of watching Smashed

• 76% of students feel equipped to make the right choices about drinking alcohol underage as a result of watching Smashed