Campaigners urge ‘bold action’ in next phase of alcohol plan
Health campaigners warn the next phase of Scotland’s alcohol strategy must contain bold action to reduce the availability and marketing of alcohol.
A report published today by Alcohol Focus Scotland, BMA Scotland, SHAAP and Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol & Drugs contains a comprehensive set of policies aimed at curbing Scotland’s alcohol problem and addressing the associated health inequalities.
The report precedes the publication this summer of the Scottish Government’s “refresh” of its 2009 strategy, Changing Scotland’s Relationship with Alcohol: A Framework for Action.
Scotland continues to have the highest level of alcohol consumption and harm in the UK. One million Scots drink above the recommended guidelines, and 22 Scots die because of alcohol every single week – twice the rate of the 1980s. The Scottish Government has cut direct funding for alcohol and drug prevention, treatment and support services by 22 per cent, leaving the NHS to plug the gap.
Alison Douglas, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: “Scotland is awash with alcohol. Widespread availability, low prices and heavy marketing are having a devastating effect, not only on drinkers but on their children and families too. Minimum unit pricing will hopefully be introduced next year, but further action is required to turn off the tap of alcohol harm, rather than simply treating the symptoms.
The report’s recommendations include implementing a 50p minimum unit price as a matter of urgency, reducing exposure of children to alcohol advertising and sponsorship and providing consumers with clearer information about the health risks associated with drinking.
Dr Peter Bennie, chairman of BMA Scotland said: “As doctors we see first-hand the damage that alcohol misuse does to patients and their families. “Amongst other conditions it can directly lead to liver disease, damage mental health and significantly increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. At a time when NHS resources are stretched like never before, we simply cannot afford to continue the cycle that sees major pressures unnecessarily put upon the health service as a result of alcohol.
He added: “It is essential that as a society we redouble our efforts to tackle Scotland’s damaging relationship with alcohol.
“The proposals we are jointly publishing today will be the yardstick against which the Scottish Government’s willingness to go further will be measured and show how we can build upon the work already been done.”