Why CAP Coordinators should share success stories

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CAPs are achieving incredible things across England, Scotland and Wales. They are reducing underage drinking by building stronger links between schools, retailers, police and local communities and are having areal impact on young people. But too often, this work goes unseen by the community.

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If you are a CAP Coordinator sharing your story isn’t just about celebrating achievements: it’s about inspiring others, strengthening partnerships, and showing our funders the real impact that CAPs deliver.

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As CAP's Communication Manager, my job is to shine a light on the amazing work that’s being carried out in communities, and I do this on social media and by sharing stories to the print and broadcast media.

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Here’s why sharing your story matters and tips on how to successfully share with the media.

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Why Sharing Matters

• Inspire other CAPs. Your project could spark ideas for others tackling similar challenges.
• Build local pride. Highlighting success engages your community and encourages even more support.
• Showcase impact. Funders, retailers, and local authorities want to see the difference you’re making. A strong story brings your achievements to life and could encourage more funding.

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What Makes a Good Story?

The most powerful stories are often the simplest:

• Put people at the centre – ask young people, parents or local partners to talk about how CAP has impacted them.
• Highlight impact - what has changed because of your CAP? Fewer incidents? New opportunities for young people?
• Keep it short and genuine – a paragraph, a photo, or even a single quote can be enough for social media.

Easy Ways to Share Your Work

Not sure where to start? Here are a few simple approaches:

• Take photos and videos at your event (important: please ensure you get consent from the people in the photos and videos).
• Capture a quick quote from a participant, partner, or local retailer.
• Summarise your project in three points: what we did, why it mattered, what happened next.

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Then, share it:

• Reach out to local press or community radio to tell them about your CAP.
• Post on your CAP’s or partner organisations’ social media channels.

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How We Can Help You

The CAP communications team can:

• Edit and shape your updates into case studies or press releases.
• Share them across our website, newsletter, and national channels.
• Your projects are making a difference every day. If you’ve run an event, launched a new initiative, or simply have a success you’d like to celebrate, share it on social media and with your local press!

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Send your stories, photos, and updates to sam@communityalcoholpartnerships.co.uk too. We always welcome content from CAPs and would love to help you share your stories.

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