Policy on Student Alcohol Awareness and Use

 

This policy is currently under review.

 

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the University’s position on alcohol consumption and related issues amongst the student body.

2. Policy Statement

The University recognises that moderate consumption of alcohol can be an enjoyable part of socialising and has no wish to discourage sensible and responsible drinking. However, the University is concerned to make all students aware of the harmful effects of alcohol, particularly as they relate to health, behaviour, safety, and academic performance, and to establish guidelines for its proper use. The University also considers it important to encourage a social life that respects those who choose not to drink alcohol. Overall the University aims to provide a supportive environment which encourages a culture of self-regulation and a respect and care for others.

3. Objectives

The University is committed to achieving the following objectives:

3.1 to promote a clear and consistent message which advocates responsible alcohol use at Durham University sanctioned events and activities, and more generally;

3.2 to improve awareness of the impact of alcohol and the health risks associated with consumption;

3.3 to promote personal responsibility for alcohol consumption and care and support in relation to that of others;

3.4 to provide a safe environment for all Durham University sanctioned events and activities that mitigates the risks and reduces the vulnerabilities related to the consumption of alcohol;

3.5 to provide an atmosphere free from pressure to drink for those who choose not to drink alcohol;

3.6 to offer a balanced social programme with choice and alternatives to drinking alcohol;

3.7 to offer appropriate help and support to those who experience problems related to their consumption of alcohol;

3.8 to provide appropriate support for those affected by the alcohol-related behaviour and problems of others;

3.9 to ensure that University strategies and procedures in this area are consistent with those of appropriate external agencies such as the Government, Students’ Union, external support agencies and community stakeholders;

3.10 to have clear, appropriate and integrated procedures to deal with problems arising from alcohol use which are both supportive and disciplinary as appropriate;

3.11 to challenge behaviours in relation to alcohol consumption where these are identified as posing a risk, for example pre-loading;

3.12. to identify, monitor and reduce alcohol-related incidents in so far as they affect our student body.

4. Implementation 

The implementation of this policy, through a supporting annual action plan, is overseen by the University Executive Committee Lead on Alcohol, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Colleges and Student Experience). The objectives (above) will be implemented through:

4.1 the dissemination of the Policy on Student Alcohol Use and Awareness to all members of the University community;

4.2 clear statements on alcohol which can be used in all University publications, including materials for recruitment, induction and progressing students;

4.3 the organisation of educational information, campaigns and events to raise awareness of alcohol together with the behavioural and health risks associated with excessive consumption, and to promote individual and collective responsibility for alcohol consumption; these should be delivered throughout the year and directed at all students through integrated delivery from appropriate sections of the University together with the Students’ Union;

4.4 the promotion of Durham University sanctioned events which are inclusive; all events will provide cheaply priced or free non-alcoholic refreshments, or will not involve any alcohol;

4.5 University policy not to sanction any events or activities which encourage inappropriate and excessive consumption of alcohol such as drinking games, and a zero tolerance approach towards initiation ceremonies;

4.6 the consideration of the appropriateness and inclusiveness of sponsorship from outlets that retail alcohol;

4.7 the provision of appropriate and accessible advice and signposting for all students who experience problems related to their own alcohol consumption or that of others; through the College Student Support Offices, the Counselling Service, or the Students’ Union Advice and Help Service, and to appropriate specialist external agencies, for example;

4.8 the provision of regular training for staff and students to improve awareness and develop skills to address alcohol-related problems;

4.9 regular liaison and meetings with appropriate external agencies and community stakeholders (e.g. Health Services, Local Authority, Police, specialist agencies, Residents’ Associations);

4.10 where appropriate, the effective use of the disciplinary procedures in response to allegations of alcohol-related misconduct;

4.11 the assessment of risks associated with alcohol consumption at all Durham University sanctioned events and activities for students, and the implementation of appropriate mitigation to address the vulnerabilities created by drinking alcohol;

4.12 the consumption of alcohol during normal working hours only occurring on special occasions, such as presentations, or seasonal gatherings, and with the prior permission of the appropriate Head of College, Department or Section; on such occasions the provision of alcohol should be moderate and suitable non-alcoholic alternatives made available;

4.13 the monitoring of alcohol-related incidents at all Durham University sanctioned events;

4.14 the regular review of the policy, associated procedures and annual action plan, including input from student representatives.

5. Oversight

The University Executive Committee Lead on Alcohol, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Colleges and Student Experience), has oversight of and responsibility for the Policy on Alcohol Awareness and Use and associated annual action plan.

6. Support

The University is a caring community committed to promoting the wellbeing of its members and supporting those who wish to address problems.

We provide appropriate help and advice for students who wish to address issues arising from their own alcohol use, and also provide appropriate help and advice for those adversely affected by the alcohol-related behaviour and problems of others.

Excessive drinking can be the first outward sign that an individual needs help. Students can seek advice from their College Student Support Office, from the Counselling Service or from the Students’ Union Advice and Help Service, and will be signposted and assisted to access appropriate external specialist agencies.

As well as offering appointments, the Counselling Service also provides electronic sources of support available through the service website: https://www.dur.ac.uk/counselling.service/.

7. Education

The University, through all appropriate sections and together with the Students’ Union, provides regular education and publicity to raise awareness of the health and other risks associated with the misuse of alcohol and to promote responsible alcohol consumption to all members.

8. Ticketed Events and Activities

Tickets sold for all Durham University sanctioned student events and activities, whether taking place within or outside the University, will always provide a ticket option which does not include any alcohol at all, and if alcohol is included in a ticket price then the amount shall not exceed three units​​​​​​​.

9. College Bars

College bars are not merely outlets for alcohol. They provide inclusive social space for college communities and are the focus of a wide range of events and activities that may or may not include alcohol. College bars are safe and supportive environments.

All college bars conform to standard operating procedures.

Colleges have Designated Premises Supervisors and permanent managers are responsible for the operation of the bars. Permanent managers and key student members complete the BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders along with other relevant training.

A minimum pricing policy is in operation and is reviewed annually. No promotions which encourage the purchase of alcohol through giveaways or reduced prices are permitted.

All college bars are accredited by the Best Bar None Scheme which includes annual inspections. The bars of Durham City colleges are also members of the Durham City Pub watch.

10. Community Liaison

The University is committed to working in partnership with community stakeholders (Emergency Services, Local Authority, Residents’ Associations etc.) and regularly liaises to share views on best practice regarding the problems associated with alcohol consumption and to take action where this is identified as being necessary.

11. University Regulations

The University recognises that, regrettably, excessive consumption of alcohol is a common factor when dealing with student misconduct. Consequently the University regulations

https://www.dur.ac.uk/university.calendar/volumei/general_regulations/discipline/

apply in respect of any alleged misconduct, including misconduct which is a consequence of alcohol use. Being under the influence of alcohol is not an excuse for misconduct, offensive, abusive or illegal behaviour, and may be regarded as an aggravating feature. The application of disciplinary procedures always includes the provision of appropriate support.

12. University Staff

It is the responsibility of all University staff to promote safe, sensible and responsible alcohol use and to signpost and assist those students who wish to access support for problems arising from alcohol use. The University will provide appropriate training and sources of advice.

13. Monitoring and Review

​​​​​​​This policy and the achievement of its objectives through the annual action plan will be reviewed annually by the University Executive Committee Lead on Alcohol, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Colleges and Student Experience). This review will include receipt of data collected to monitor incidents related to the consumption of alcohol and the use of support services provided to address alcohol-related issues.