Rugby Sevens Kick Off For "Don't Buy It, Don't Supply It" Campaign

The latest phase of the Don't Buy It, Don't Supply It campaign kicks off this weekend for the start of the Borders rugby sevens circuit.

The initiative aims to raise awareness of the issue of adults buying alcohol for children and young people in the Scottish Borders at key periods in the year, with new legislation making it an offence to simply supply alcohol for anyone under 18.

Initially launched during the festive season, the campaign now focusses on the local sevens series when underage drinking can also be an issue.

Hawick Rugby Club helped launch this phase of the scheme, which will see police and partners carrying out activities during the spring circuit which begins on Sunday 1 April at Gala RFC.

The new legislation means if an adult is caught supplying or buying alcohol for an under 18, they could face a fine of up to £5,000 or up to three months in prison.

In addition, if under 18 and caught by the police with alcohol, they will have it confiscated which may lead to serious consequences for the person who supplied or purchased it.

Retailers and licensees also face serious implications if caught selling to under 18s.

Under 18s from TD1 Youth Hub and Galashiels Academy came up with the Don't Buy It Don't Supply It slogan, and provided the initial poster design which has featured across the Borders.

It is being taken forward by the Scottish Borders Safer Communities Team, incorporating Scottish Borders Council, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, with support from the Borders Alcohol and Drugs Partnership.

Councillor Watson McAteer, Chair of the Police, Fire and Rescue and Safer Communities Board, said: "The Kings of the Sevens circuit is an iconic and hugely popular competition for the Scottish Borders.

"It brings thousands of rugby supporters to communities across the region over a number of weeks and provides numerous spin-off benefits.

"However, it can also lead to an increase in underage drinking in our communities, which is why Don't Buy It, Don't Supply It campaign has returned.

"This campaign was inspired by young people from the TD1 Youth Hub and Galashiels Academy who came up with the initial idea, and we hope it provides a clear message to adults about the legal, health and societal issues associated with underage drinking.

"These include the potential for a significant fine or even prison for any adult caught supply alcohol for young people."

John Thorburn, President of Hawick RFC added: "We are pleased to support this worthwhile campaign and look forward to ensuring our own sevens tournament on Saturday 21 April is safe and enjoyable day for all who attend."

Tim Patterson, Joint Director of Public Health and Chair of the Borders Alcohol and Drugs Partnership said: "Teenage drinking can have an immediate and long term impact on health and the earlier teenagers start drinking regularly, the greater the risk of problem drinking in adulthood.

"It is really important that adults consider their responsibilities throughout the year, which this campaign highlights."

Police Scotland Community Inspector Tony Hodges said: "We want everyone to enjoy the Kings of the Sevens series in a safe environment, including our young people.

"However, we do experience more young people under the influence of alcohol at this time which can lead to youth-related anti-social behaviour.

"I would continue to urge parents and guardians of all young people to discuss the dangers associated with underage drinking with their children.

"The Don't Buy It, Don't Supply It campaign sets out clearly the consequences of supplying alcohol to under 18s, which could result in a criminal record for the adult involved."

Anyone wishing to support the campaign can download materials from www.scotborders.gov.uk/dontbuydontsupply.

The campaign focusses on key times when underage drinking is an issue – Christmas/New Year, rugby sevens season and Borders summer festivals.

All 450 licensed premises in the Borders were provided with campaign poster and information to encourage support for the scheme during the festive period last year, alongside other activities carried out by partners.