Young mum slammed for giving 12-year-old a bottle of vodka at sleepover

A Young mum was yesterday condemned for giving a 12-year-old a bottle of vodka at a sleepover with schoolfriends.

Hazel Aitchison, 26, admitted giving the girl a quarter bottle of spirits at her house last July.

Pregnant Aitchison defended her actions – telling police the girl’s mum had given her permission to let the schoolgirl have booze, the Daily Record reports.

Stunned health officials yesterday warned of the risks of drinking alcohol at such a young age.

And Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said: “It is extremely irresponsible for any adult to purchase alcohol for someone so young.

“Alcohol can cause serious damage to a young person’s health and these actions are simply unacceptable.”

The girl was in her care when Aitchison was given money to buy the booze, Falkirk Sheriff Court heard.

Adrian Fraser, prosecuting, said: “She went to the shop and returned a short time later, giving the young person a quarter bottle of vodka and some change.

“She then allowed the alcohol to be consumed by the youngster in her charge.”

Fraser said when Aitchison was charged, she told police “I only did it once” and the girl’s mum had given permission.

Aitchison, who is due to give birth in April, previously admitted culpably and recklessly purchasing and providing alcohol for a 12-year-old in her care and allowing it to be consumed at her home in Camelon.

Sheriff John Mundy deferred sentence for six months for Aitchison to be of good behaviour.

NHS Forth Valley alcohol and drug coordinator Elaine Lawlor said: “Research shows the earlier a young person begins to drink alcohol, the more likely they are to drink in ways that can be risky later in life.

“Alcohol can put young people at serious risk of harm. Current scientific evidence states that an alcohol-free childhood is the healthiest and best option.”

Alcohol Focus Scotland chief executive Dr Evelyn Gillan said: “Drinking alcohol at the age of 12 poses serious health risks for any young person.

“Adults have a responsibility to take every precaution to protect children and young people from the harm caused by alcohol and under no circumstances should they buy alcohol for them.”

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Individuals aged over 18 should never purchase alcohol for those under the legal age.

“We will investigate all circumstances where it is suspected an adult has supplied youths with drink.

“Retailers are also reminded to be vigilant for anyone attempting to proxy purchase and report any suspicions.”

-Mirror