PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 7 APRIL 2008

Jigsaw Supports ALAC’s Changing Drinking Culture Campaign

Jigsaw Family Services fully supports ALAC’s new campaign which is aiming to change New Zealand’s binge drinking culture.

Tau Huirama, Jigsaw CEO Strategic Relationships, believes the campaign that features a series of strong advertisements, resources as well as developing policies, enforcement and communication will help educate the public about this serious issue.

“This is a great campaign. It is important to get people in the homes and communities talking about this serious issue and ALAC’s new campaign show the negative impact binge drinking can have on children and families across New Zealand. ”

Mr Huirama believes that changing New Zealand’s binge drinking culture will help address another problem, our terrible domestic violence and child abuse statistics.

“To some people, excessive drinking can contribute to domestic violence and child abuse. When people are in a foul frame of mind and drink so much that their inhibitions are removed, we have found numerous times that they then can become abusive to their loved ones.”

Mr Huirama believes when people drink excessively, it can put their friends and family at risk of getting hurt.

“There is a point when overdrinking can become dangerous and harmful to the drinker and their vulnerable family members. For the safety and the flourishing of our children beware of how much you can drink before your inhibitions drop”.

Mr Huirama says there are positive steps people can take if they think they are binge drinkers and need help.

“It is important we stop the binge drinking culture we currently have. This will help more families create an environment that ensures their child can be safe and flourish and other family members can thrive”

If you or anyone you know needs advice on how to stop binge drinking visit the campaign website (www.hadenough.org.nz) or give their 0800 support line a call which directs callers to the Alcohol Drug Helpline (0800 787 797).

ENDS

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