🎙️ Beyond the Buzz: Expert Answers to Young People’s Questions

In this episode of Beyond the Buzz, young people are joined by a drug and alcohol professional to ask honest questions and explore the realities of substance use, risk, and support.

The conversation covers common concerns and misconceptions, including why young people may feel pressure to try substances, how drugs and alcohol can affect physical and mental health, and what support is available for young people who are worried about themselves or someone they care about. The professional responds directly to the questions raised by the group, helping to separate fact from myth in a clear and non-judgemental way.

This episode is designed to balance young people’s lived experience with trusted information, supporting better understanding, safer choices, and early help. It also provides parents, carers, and professionals with insight into the questions young people are asking and the issues they are navigating.

The discussion is suitable for use in schools, youth settings, and family conversations, helping to open up honest dialogue around drugs and alcohol in a way that feels accessible and relevant to young people.

⚠️ Content Notice & Disclaimer

This episode discusses drugs, alcohol, and related risks, and includes educational information shared by a professional. Some content may be sensitive. Listener discretion is advised.

The professional’s contributions are for general information and awareness only and do not replace personalised medical, legal, or therapeutic advice. The views expressed do not represent the official views of Havering Council or Youth Unity CIC.

This project was created to understand and respond to what young people in Havering know, feel, and experience around drugs and alcohol, and to provide supportive, preventative education — not to promote or normalise substance use.

If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s drug or alcohol use, please seek professional support.

🤝 Support & Signposting (Havering / London)

If you or someone you know would like support:

CGL Havering – Drug & Alcohol Support Services

Confidential support for young people and families

👉 https://www.changegrowlive.org/havering

NHS 111 – Mental Health & Crisis Support

Call 111 and select the mental health option

Shout Crisis Text Line (24/7)

Text SHOUT to 85258

Kooth (Ages 11–25)

Free online mental health support

👉 https://www.kooth.com

Childline (Under 19s)

Call 0800 1111

👉 https://www.childline.org.uk

If someone is in immediate danger, please call 999.

🎧 About Beyond the Buzz

Beyond the Buzz is a youth-led podcast series by Youth Unity CIC, commissioned by Havering Council Public Health and delivered in partnership with CGL Havering. The series creates safe spaces for young people to talk openly about drugs, alcohol and vaping, while building confidence, communication and media skills.

👉 www.youthunity.org

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