Cllr. WENDY TAYLOR is calling for alcohol awareness training to be available for those convicted of an alcohol related crime. WENDY says “Many people are unaware of the harm their excessive drinking can cause. Not only is alcohol abuse causing major health problems, but also leads to anti-social behaviour, domestic violence & family breakdown, drink driving & criminal damage. Alcohol awareness classes help individuals to identify their own drinking patterns & develop plans to reduce the risk of future criminal or antisocial behaviour.” WENDY is asking the Council to work with Balance North East, Northumbria Police & the Wellbeing & Health Partnership to develop this proposal, which would be similar to the speed awareness training offered to drivers. Liberal Democrat Councillors will also ask the Council to work with other local authorities to consider introducing a minimum price for alcohol in the North-East to reduce the risk of binge drinking