Janine GriffithsPeople across East Leeds are being encouraged to talk about alcohol and pregnancy as part of a city-wide awareness campaign.
Forward Leeds is highlighting the risks of drinking alcohol during pregnancy ahead of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day on 9 September.
The 2026 campaign forms part of the city’s “No Thanks, I’m Pregnant” initiative.
It focuses on a simple message that there is no known safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy.
Sally Goodwin-Mills, Advanced Health Improvement Specialist for Maternity at Leeds City Council, said: “Many people know that pregnant women are advised not to drink alcohol. But, fewer realise that alcohol passes through the placenta to a developing baby and that a baby’s brain and nervous system begin developing very early in pregnancy, often before someone knows they are pregnant.”
Three short films have been produced to support the campaign.
They explore real-life situations involving alcohol and pregnancy, including couples choosing to stop drinking while trying for a baby.
Another film features a mother reflecting on what she learned about alcohol and pregnancy.
A third shows a partner choosing alcohol-free drinks on a night out to support their pregnant partner.
The campaign aims to increase awareness of the risks while encouraging supportive behaviour from partners, families, friends and professionals.
Forward Leeds Specialist Midwife Alex Whincup said: “What I like about these films is that they focus on real-life situations. They don’t lecture or judge. Instead, they encourage understanding and conversation.
“They also remind us that this is not a message solely for pregnant women. Partners, families, friends, colleagues and professionals all have a role to play in creating supportive environments and in helping people make informed choices.”
The campaign is encouraging people and organisations across Leeds, including communities in East Leeds, to share its materials and help raise awareness.
FASD is entirely preventable, but awareness remains lower than many health professionals would like.
Sally Goodwin-Mills said: “Sometimes the most effective public health campaigns aren’t about big gestures. They’re about simple messages shared consistently by people that communities trust. This is about getting over those messages.
“A conversation lasting just a few minutes could help someone make an informed decision during pregnancy and ultimately give a child the best possible start in life.”
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