I am going to start with a thank you to South Tyneside Young Health Ambassadors, who chatted to myself and Dr Hannah Rosa about key public health topics. Sharing our thoughts, feelings and opinions on alcohol, smoking, cannabis and sex can feel risky. Therefore, I am extremely grateful to the Young Health Ambassadors for sharing such a depth of insight into the perceptions of these topics.

Data

A sample of South Tyneside pupils aged 12 to 15 completed the Public Health commissioned Health Related Behaviour Questionnaire (HRBQ) in 2022. They told us that:

• 38% of pupils had drunk alcohol
• 26% of Year 10 boys and 27% of Year 10 girls, drank alcohol in the last 7 days
• 21% of pupils have been drunk
• 82% (78%) of pupils reported they had never tried smoking
• 11% of Year 10 boys and 9% of Year 10 girls reported that they smoke occasionally or regularly
• 32% said that they have at least tried using an e-cigarette
• 33% are ‘fairly sure’ or ‘certain’ that they know someone who takes drugs
• 26% of Year 10 boys and 22% (30%) of Year 10 girls have been offered drugs
• 13% of Year 10 boys and 9% of Year 10 girls said that they have taken drugs to get high

Insights

The Young Health Ambassadors shared that vaping is seen as a safer or cheaper alternative to smoking cigarettes or alcohol. Young people see a lack of compelling evidence to challenge this view. Vaping is common and supports social connection. Sharing a vape with friends, strengthens their bond.

Smoking and alcohol use is strongly influenced by peers. Risky behaviour in relation to alcohol, such as sexual assault, physical assault, hospitalisation and risk of drowning, are recognised. The risks are outweighed against the fear of missing out, of hearing such stories third hand. The risks are normalised, and social inclusion is prioritised.

When delivering training to professionals, there is a perception that alcohol use is influenced by our parents. The feeling among the Young Health Ambassadors is that there is a stronger influence from their peers. Some have parental permission or support to drink, while others use drinking alcohol as an act of rebellion against their parents.

Drinking alcohol is fun and is seen as risky in terms of getting caught. Drinking during the school day is enabled through the common use of water bottles and is an activity that can make classes more fun or acceptable.

Cannabis use is influenced by the media, in particular films where it is commonly depicted both casually and humorously. Weed vapes make this accessible to our young people. Substance use (vapes, alcohol, cannabis) is down to personal choice, while some choose a single substance, others will engage in multiple substances.

There is a perceived lack of support. The Young Health Ambassadors expressed frustration in how school staff (nurses and teachers) responded to use and other concerns. The support often comes in the form of punishment (of themselves or others) and makes any sharing of information less likely in the future. The Young Health Ambassadors call for more genuine support, they want to be listened to, understood and treated with empathy.

School education is ineffective, irregular or non-existent. Sessions described were unengaging and not taken seriously. The educators rely heavily on the PowerPoint slides and do not ‘know their stuff’. The educators often share their own personal stories rather than focusing on the factual, informative content.

The Young Health Ambassadors highlighted a decline in sexual health education, and that any education that did happen was lacking. Stories of sexual activity between students on school premises, and of used condoms being normal litter, were shared. Often the response by the school was to take the use of certain areas away from all the students.

Now what?

As professionals we often serve as the bridge between young people and the support they need. It’s crucial that we prioritise open, honest communication that empowers those in our care. Are you listening actively, without judgment? Are you creating an environment where young people feel safe to share their concerns, fears, and dreams? Reflect on how your interactions might foster trust and respect, and consider the impact of your communication style—are you setting a positive example for others to follow?

We have the power to influence not only the young people we directly support, and the broader culture within our communities. Our approach sends a message about what is important. Are you modelling empathy, resilience, and respect? Reflect on how you can be more intentional about your actions, ensuring they reflect the values you hope to cultivate in others.

Our work environments may focus more on discipline and correction than on support and guidance. Our young people respond more positively to understanding and empowerment rather than punitive measures. Are you offering solutions and guidance, or are you reinforcing fear and compliance? Consider how you can offer more support to those under your care, fostering environments where mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning and growth rather than causes for punishment.

Thank again to the South Tyneside Young Health Ambassadors!

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