New website to inspire teenagers to drink sensibly
www.alcoholandyou.org

Young people will be able to log on and learn about the dangers of alcohol abuse with the launch of a brand new educational website www.alcoholandyou.org

Designed by At-Bristol, the South West’s leading science and discovery centre and sponsored by Allied Domecq, the Bristol based spirits and wine company, the website aims to inspire 11-16 year olds to think sensibly about alcohol though an innovative range of online games, video scenarios, real life stories and interactive quizzes.

The website marks the second phase of the partnership between At-Bristol and Allied Domecq and continues key themes from their highly successful first initiative, an interactive exhibit based in Explore-At-Bristol called ‘Measure up on alcohol…know your limits’.

By logging on to the stimulating new website, students can explore the facts and the fiction behind alcohol, from its history through to hangovers, health risks and crime. The first section starts from scratch giving core information on how alcohol is made, where it all began and how each drink can be broken down into units and calories on an online calculator. The effects alcohol can have on the brain and the body follow, with sections on how memory, mood and health can change. A picture story cleverly illustrates how a young partygoer’s night out turns into a nightmare and viewers can plot the mood swings she experiences along the way.

Video links also transport viewers to the heart of a house party to discover a series of alcohol-fuelled dramas taking place. By exploring the behavioural highs and lows of their peers at a party, students get to vote on what happens next and learn about the damaging effects drinking alcohol irresponsibly can bring.

Combining information on the dangers of alcohol abuse with top tips to ensure a safe night out, the website offers 11-16 year olds a crucial insight into drinking. Through the hotshots quiz viewers can put their newfound knowledge on alcohol to the test and see how they score.

But teachers aren’t left out of the action; a whole section is dedicated to classroom resources and downloadable activities to try out. From debates and lesson plans to consequences and role-plays, there’s a whole host of ideas to take into the classroom.

Emma Cook, At-Bristol’s Project Manager says, ’By teaming up with Allied Domecq, we’ve created a really accessible educational tool for students and teachers. The website is a great way for teenagers to learn about alcohol in a more fun and engaging way. By exploring the dangers of alcohol abuse though interactive scenarios and fact-based activities, key issues are highlighted without preaching.’

Ben Eavis, Group Social Policy Manager, Allied Domecq says, ’The team at At-Bristol have used the evaluation from the first phase of the project to develop a new and valuable learning tool. We are very pleased that the peer led interactive approach taken in the project is giving such excellent results. This website aligns itself clearly with the objectives for alcohol education set out by the government in the UK Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy. Our partnership with At-Bristol is yet another example of our commitment to responsible business practice.’

To contact the At-Bristol Press Office, please call Annabel Iles:
Tel: 0117 915 7152, fax: 0117 915 7200 or email annabel.iles@at-bristol.org.uk

Note to Editors:

  1. At-Bristol, a registered charity, has won 13 awards since opening in 2000 including the Good Britain Guide 2001’s ‘Family Attraction of the Year’ and ‘Large Attraction of the Year’ in the England in Excellence Awards South West. It consists of three attractions:
    Explore-At-Bristol - a hands-on science centre, IMAX® Theatre-At-Bristol - the largest cinema screen in the west of England and Wildwalk-At-Bristol - a journey from the origins of life to the ends of the Earth.

  2. It is a Landmark Millennium Attraction whose principal partners include the Millennium Commission (£44.3 million), the South West of England Regional Development Agency (£17.1 million) and Bristol City Council (£15.7 million).

  3. Allied Domecq is a dynamic marketing-led brands company operating globally in the businesses of Spirits and Wine and Quick Service Restaurants. The company is increasing its engagement with all stakeholders over issues of alcohol. Alcohol education for young people is a part of this engagement and illustrates Allied Domecq’s commitment to social responsibility.