YOUNG people in Liverpool arrested under the influence of alcohol or drugs are to receive direct help from youth workers.
The Home Office is providing £180,000 to extend its Alcohol Arrest Referral (AAR) project in the city to include under 18s from next month.
A version of the scheme for adults is already running in Liverpool.
The youth Alcohol Arrest Referral schemes will ensure that anyone aged 10 to 17 arrested while under the influence is interviewed and assessed by a youth worker, who will determine follow-up action.
Dr Paula Grey, Director of Public Health for Liverpool, said: “We anticipate the pilot will be extremely successful and estimate that we will have one-to-one contact with up to 350 young people enabling us to talk to them about the effects and dangers of irresponsible drinking.
“Unfortunately, Liver-pool has had one of the worst records for alcohol-specific hospital admissions for under-18s in the North West and we are determined to address this issue.”
The scheme will also provide information and support on education, training, employment, diversionary activities, health and housing.
