An initiative to tackle underage drinking and associated problems has launched in Wantage and Grove. The Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) is a campaign to educate the public on the impact alcohol abuse has on our communities. The initiative, which is the first of its kind in Oxfordshire, follows successful trials elsewhere in the UK. The aim is to reduce young people’s access to alcohol by building on the existing work already undertaken by the South and Vale Community Safety Partnership. Agencies including CAP, King Alfred’s School, Oxford University Hospitals, Public Health, South and Vale District Councils, Sweatbox, Thames Valley Police, and Wantage and Grove Street Pastors will join local licensees, schools and youth groups and work together to reduce teen drinking and associated anti-social behaviour. An action plan of activities will aim to bring about sustainable improvements through education, intelligence-led enforcement and offering positive alternatives to young people that promote a healthy lifestyle. A priority for the campaign is reducing the opportunities young people have to purchase alcohol. To assist with this, Waitrose have agreed to facilitate free training for independent retailers on responsible selling practises, including the 'Challenge 25' age-verification policy and how to spot fake ID. The CAP will also look to engage and educate parents with a recent survey of young people in the area, showing the greatest source of alcohol to young people was via their Mum or Dad. Cllr Sandy Lovatt, Cabinet Member for Legal and Democratic Services at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “I am pleased to announce this new initiative for Wantage and Grove. We know that from our recent survey work that reducing underage drinking is important to our local community. The knock-on effects irresponsible drinking can be severe and together we can bring about a change in attitudes and behaviour. I am proud that the Wantage and Grove CAP is flying the flag for Oxfordshire". Derek Lewis, Chairman of Community Alcohol Partnerships said: “I am delighted at the launch of the Wantage and Grove CAP. Community Alcohol Partnerships are a tried and tested way of driving down underage drinking and creating better, safer and friendlier neighbourhoods. These locally tailored projects have been shown to be highly effective in driving down harm. To be successful, we rely on the support of all our partners and the community itself".