Drugs, alcohol and gambling

Coping with pressure from friends to act in a certain way can be difficult for children. They may feel they have to try drugs or alcohol just to fit in.

There is a lot of helpful information that may help you understand the possible effects of taking drugs and drinking alcohol. 

Help and advice can be found on the following websites: 

• Frank: advice about drugs
• Young Minds: guidance around drugs and alcohol

Our substance advice service provide information, advice and education. They also provide treatment programs for children and young people who want to cut down or quit using drugs and/or alcohol.

Gambling is where people risk money or valuable items to win a prize based on an unknown result. It is a game of chance, so the odds of winning are generally low. 

The legal gambling age in the UK is 18 for most activities, including casinos, betting shops and online gambling. However, you must be 16 to purchase lottery tickets and scratchcards, and to bet on football pools. 

Video games can also involve risk taking on unknown results, therefore encouraging gambling-like behaviour.

Help and advice is available on the following websites: 

• GamCare
• GambleAware