Secondary school students in Milton Keynes are set to take part in a workshop on the dangers of underage drinking.
An international theatre production ‘Smashed’, developed and presented by Collingwood Learning and supported by Diageo, is set to visit nine secondary schools across Milton Keynes between 6th and 10th March.
The programme combines 'drama with interactive workshops' to help students understand the facts, causes, and consequences of alcohol misuse and the risks of underage drinking.
According to data from the Government, hospital admissions for alcohol-specific conditions among under 18s in Milton Keynes is below England’s national average (19.4 per 100,000 versus 29.3 per 100,000).
Each ‘Smashed’ session combines a 25-minute dramatic performance with a 35-minute interactive workshop which allows students to reflect on vital underage drinking themes and answer questions about the choices made by the characters in the performance.
Smashed works in close collaboration with Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAPs), an organisation which brings together councils, police, retailers, schools, health providers and community groups across the UK to reduce alcohol harm among young people.
Chris Simes, Managing Director at Collingwood Learning, said: “It’s brilliant to be returning to Milton Keynes to inspire young people with the Smashed Live programme. These engaging and lively shows have a proven lasting impact and make a real change from the typical classroom session.”
Nuno Teles, Managing Director at Diageo GB, said: “Smashed’ aims to empower young people by equipping them with the knowledge, awareness, and confidence to understand the dangers of underage drinking.
"Creating a positive impact in the communities in which we operate is critical to our business and the Smashed programme has a proven track record of delivering outstanding results in secondary schools. We are so delighted to welcome the tour to Milton Keynes so we can empower the next generation to drink responsibly.”
