Students update Minister on alcohol initiative

University of Brighton students met with Crime Prevention Minister Norman Baker for an update on a National Union of Students’ campaign to encourage responsible drinking.

30 October 2014

The University of Brighton is one of seven universities which signed up for a 12-month pilot scheme called the Alcohol Impact initiative, launched in May.

The Brighton Students' Union is hosting a series of non-alcoholic events for students including film nights and quiz nights; ensuring all bars offer non-alcoholic beverages at the same or lower price than equivalent alcoholic drinks and working with local agencies including Red Frogs, Brighton & Hove City Council, the NHS and Sussex Police on alcohol. 

The Students' Union is delivering the project in partnership with the university, which is providing training and information sessions on alcohol awareness for staff and students through the Student Services team.

Norman Baker MP with students

Norman Baker MP with students © The Argus

"This Home Office-backed project is already helping universities to encourage responsible drinking - leading to safer and more productive places to study and live."

NUS Vice President (Welfare) Colum McGuire said: "It's been fantastic to have the minister visit one of the places where our pilot alcohol impact schemes is taking place, so he can see first-hand how seriously NUS and our member students' unions consider the welfare of students.

"Our Alcohol Impact scheme works with students' unions and institutions to change attitudes towards drinking and to build healthier, safer, student communities.

"Going to university should be fun and exciting, but it’s really important too that students consume alcohol responsibly during this period and beyond."

Fliss Newton, Brighton Students' Union Wellbeing Vice President said: "I am really pleased at the success we have had with the project so far, the number of students engaging in our new activities and the positive impact the project has had on the SU and the types of events we look to provide. The new partnerships, both with the University and other local organisations, have already proved to be of great benefit to our members and I am excited to see where this project takes us in the future!"