The Government is to consult on banning the sale of ‘high-caffeine’ energy drinks to children under the age of 16.
Currently, it’s thought that around 100,000 children consume at least one high caffeine energy drink every day, and there is said to be ‘growing evidence’ that links these drinks to harmful effects on children – including things like disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, poor concentration, and reduced educational outcomes.
So, in a bid to ‘boost kids’ health’, both physical and mental, plans set out today will stop retailers from selling the drinks to those under 16.
The Government believes this move could prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children and deliver health benefits worth tens of millions of pounds.
The proposal would make it illegal to sell high-caffeine energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre to anyone aged under 16 years across all retailers – including online, in shops, restaurants, cafes and vending machines.
The proposals would not affect lower-caffeine soft drinks nor tea and coffee.
Government to ban the sale of energy drinks to children under 16 / Credit: NeedPic
Many major retailers already voluntarily restrict sales, but research suggests that some smaller convenience stores continue selling to children.
Leaders and ministers say early intervention is ‘crucial’ if they are to deliver on their pledge to create the healthiest generation of children ever.
The move to ban energy drinks for under 16s is backed by parents, teachers, and also teaching unions who report on pupils being unable to concentrate and focus because of them, and even so far as to negatively affecting grades and academic performance.
Acting now to improve children’s wellbeing will not only help give them the best start in life and prevent them from a lifetime of poor health, the Government claims, but also deliver tens of millions of pounds of health benefits, as well as future savings for the NHS and increased economic productivity.
The proposal aims to boost kids’ health, both physically and mentally / Credit: Pexels
“How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of four cans of cola in their system on a daily basis?” commented Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting.
“Energy drinks might seem harmless, but the sleep, concentration, and wellbeing of today’s kids are all being impacted, while high sugar versions damage their teeth and contribute to obesity
“As part of our Plan for Change and shift from treatment to prevention, we’re acting on the concerns of parents and teachers and tackling the root causes of poor health and educational attainment head on."
“By preventing shops from selling these drinks to kids, we’re helping build the foundations for healthier and happier generations to come.”
Venture out of the city centre to Hillsborough and allow us to plan your day.
We all know Hillsborough for its stadium, as well as its park which holds Sheffield's own Tramline festival and other events across the year.
But there's more to the neighbourhood then that, with its own bustling high street that's bursting with independents waiting to welcome you in.
So - you've just got to S6, here's what you're going to do...
Grab a coffee from Depot Bakery
Coach House, Hillsborough Park, S6 4HD
Images: The Sheff
You can't start a day of exploring without getting a healthy dose of caffeine in your system, and Depot Bakery is the best spot for it.
Established in 2014, this artisan bakery serves up beautiful bakes and fabulous coffee, all on the doorstep of Hillsborough Park which, coincidentally, brings us onto our next activity...
Have a wander around Hillsborough Park
Images: The Sheff
Okay, I know we said that the suburb had more to it than its park, but you can't go without having a gander through the greenery, right?
Grab your coffee to-go, have a mooch and breathe in that fresh Yorkshire air. There's also a play area if you're bringing the little ones too.
Grab some lunch at Frenzy
94 Middlewood Rd, Hillsborough, S6 4HA
Images: The Sheff
After all that walking and mooching you'll have most definitely worked up an appetite, and Frenzy is a great spot for a light bite.
This Mediterranean-inspired cafe serve everything from toasted focaccia sandwiches and salads to topped yoghurt bowls loaded with fresh fruit.
Explore Middlewood Road
Images: The Sheff
Time for some shopping, and Middlewood Road is Hillsborough's own little high street full of independent shops that are perfect for perusing.
A highlight is the gorgeous Hillsborough Bookshop that is proudly indie and bringing a specially curate collection of colourful, inclusive and representative books to S6.
Enjoy dinner at The Orange Bird
78 Middlewood Rd, Hillsborough, S6 4HA
Images: The Sheff
This is not only one of our favourite restaurants in Hillsborough, but it's one of our top spots in the whole of Sheffield.
Known for serving irresistible South African flavours, this place is just that little bit special and everything you order will be a big hitter amongst the table. Their lamb served on a bed of hummus is quite literally one of our death row dishes.
Ambitious new concept revealed for beloved Leeds museum celebrating the city’s history
Clementine Hall
Leeds City Council have revealed the exciting new concept for Abbey House Museum.
Opened to the public almost 100 years ago in 1927, the historic Grade II listed museum originally served as Kirkstall Abbey’s gatehouse until the dissolution of the monasteries.
The plans for the site have been drawn up as part of a 'Reimagining Project' supported by Leeds City Council and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport Museum Renewal Fund.
The concept aims to create a more interactive visitor experience as the museum goes into its centenary year, with a main focus on intergenerational play for people of all ages to enjoy together.
Image: Supplied
Leeds’ rich collections will be at the heart of the museum, whilst the proposals include enhancing the museum’s traditional streets to enhance and include magical reveals that will let the public experience history through hands on activities.
The proposals mark a new direction for Abbey House Museum, which was put forward for potential closure in 2024 as part of measures to help Leeds City Council address unprecedented budget pressures.
A public appeal saw the council listen to the community, agreeing to keep it open and pledge to make steps to make the museum more sustainable in the future.
Image: Supplied
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, said: “This is an exciting moment for the future of Abbey House Museum and one which we hope will be the beginning of a bold new direction for a special place which has been part of the Kirkstall community for centuries.
“During the public consultation on the museum’s future, what really came across was the passion and determination people have to see the site succeed, and we want to channel that enthusiasm into creating an attraction which can continue to welcome visitors for many years to come.”
Emily Sergeant -
4th September 2025 
