Nurses 'key to drink crisis'

Published on 25/06/2009 10:08

NURSES should be handed a key role in persuading future generations of youngsters not to turn to drink, a leading union has said.

Speaking after the release of a report suggesting the number of schoolchildren who drink alcohol has begun to fall, the Royal College of Nursing said more had to be done to ensure the downward trend continued.

The organisation said youngsters who abuse alcohol put an immense strain on nurses.

Director Theresa Fyffe said: "The role that nurses have should not be underestimated."