Many schools choose not to allow after functions following balls and formals.  For those that do, these guidelines can minimise the risk associated with them.

It is fair to say that schools breathe a sigh of relief when ball/formal night is over for the year.  We all want these nights to be safe and memorable (for all the right reasons). In Otago and Southland, Police and Public Health South, in partnership, provide guidance to parents and students who are planning an after function.

There is strong evidence that alcohol causes harm to the developing brain and that brain development is still occurring into our mid-20s. This includes the parts of the brain that control judgement, impulse control and self-regulation. Alcohol effects developing brains differently to that of adults. It actually inhibits the brain's development and prevents it from reaching its full potential. There are also other long term risks to health including a myriad of cancers.

It is recommended that those aged under 18 years do not consume any alcohol. The act of allowing alcohol consumption to be associated with safe places, such as the school environment, normalises alcohol consumption to young people, and minimises their understanding of the risks involved.

Therefore, it is strongly recommended that if an after function is planned, it is alcohol free. Below are links to guidelines for running these functions. Included are suggested limits if you choose to allow alcohol at your event.

SAMPS (Save-A-Mate Peer Support) is New Zealand Red Cross's fantastic volunteer programme providing a support service for events such as these. Young people are trained in basic first aid and peer support and can operate a chill zone for party goers to go to for a break.  This service is available in Dunedin. For more info see the flyer below.