Brook's position on drugs and alcohol

Brook believes that impartial and practical advice and information about the links between drugs and alcohol, and sex are likely to lower the incidence of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.

Sex and relationships education needs to include more discussion about the association between alcohol, drugs and unsafe sex. This is more likely to be effective if it is presented in the context of young people's lifestyles and risk taking in general.

Brook’s educational resources and the work of its Centres help young people to understand the possible impact of drugs and alcohol on sex and relationships.

Background information

23% of 11-15 year olds report drinking alcohol. Drinking becomes more common as young people move through their teenage years rising to 45% of 15 year olds.[1]

Alcohol consumption amongst young people has increased since 1990. In 2004 the average consumption per week amongst young drinkers was 11.3 units for boys and 10.2 for girls, almost twice the amount consumed in 1990.[2]

34% of men aged 16-24 report drinking more than 8 units of alcohol a day at least once in the previous week and 26% of women report drinking more than 6 units.[3] This is over twice the recommended safe daily limit.

18% of 11-15 year olds have used drugs in the last year, most commonly cannabis.[4] As with alcohol, cannabis use increases with age from 1% of 11 year olds to 26% of 15 year olds.[5]

1% of 11-15 year olds have used heroin and the same proportion have used cocaine. In total 4% have used a Class A drug of some kind.[6]

26% of 16-24 year olds have used drugs, primarily cannabis. 8% of 16-24 year olds have used Class A drugs.[7]

Research has shown an association between drug and alcohol use and unsafe sex. 20% of young men and 13% of young women aged 15-19 cited alcohol as the main reason for first intercourse. The younger the woman the more likely it is that alcohol was involved. [8]

40% of young people had not used contraception on at least one occasion because they were under the influence of drugs or alcohol.[9]

Young people are twice as likely not to use contraception if alcohol is cited as the main reason for sex according to a survey for Channel 4. The first National Survey Of Sexual Attitudes And Lifestyles also found that 62% of those who reported alcohol as a factor in the decision to have first intercourse used no contraception compared to 30% who said they were in love.[10]

A study in Norway found that 75% of 16-20 year olds used contraception when sober compared to 59% when moderately intoxicated and 13% when strongly intoxicated.[11]

Young men and women are more likely to regret having sex where alcohol is a factor.[12]

Brook provides free and confidential sexual health services and advice for young people under 25. Brook is a registered charity number 239966.