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The Durham Police and Crime Commissioner has called for increased awareness around alcohol, and the harm it can cause, particularly to young people. PCC Joy Allen, speaking at an event in
the House of Commons, said it is 'critical' that young people are informed about this issue Government statistics from 2023 show that 42% of violent incidents are alcohol-related,
and that 40% of secondary school-age children have been involved in alcohol-related violence. The PCC is working at a national level to tackle the problems associated with addiction, but
closer to home, in County Durham and Darlington, alcohol is said to be a factor in one in three violent crimes. The Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP), an organisation which aims to reduce
alcohol harm in children and young people, held its annual awards in April, shining a spotlight on the work being undertaken to reduce underage drinking and related issues. On this, Joy
Allen said: "The awards highlighted the fantastic proactive work taking place across the country to reach and educate young people about the risk of alcohol harm including the growing
dangers of spiking and to ensure retailers meet their responsibilities in thwarting under-age sales. "Drinking alcohol at a young age can cause health problems later in life, not to
mention increase the risk of involvement in crime and the taking of more serious substances including drugs. CAP partnerships are playing a vital role in preventing harm before it escalates
and becomes out of control and it was inspiring to hear the positive results being achieved." Kate Winstanley, director of CAP added: "The CAP Awards are an important part of our
events calendar as they recognise the fantastic work and incredible commitment of our local partners - police, schools, retailers and community groups - who come together to make a real
difference in the lives of children and young people. "The awards acknowledge their invaluable contributions and the positive impact they are making in communities across the UK to
protect young people from alcohol-related harm." JOIN OUR COUNTY DURHAM WHATSAPP COMMUNITY Join our County Durham WhatsApp community for all the latest news County Durham news sent
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