New research reveals link between number of alcohol outlets and crime
A major new study published by a Scots charity today reveals the link between the number of places to buy alcohol and crime rates.
The study by Alcohol Focus Scotland and Edinburgh and Glasgow universities found that areas with the most places selling alcohol had significantly higher crime rates – as well as higher rates of alcohol- related deaths and hospitalisations – than areas with the fewest outlets.
It is the first time the link between crime and the number of alcohol outlets has been looked at in such detail across Scotland.
Information is now also available which highlights the stark differences at a local level between the number of places to buy alcohol in deprived areas compared to more affluent areas.
Among the key findings are: crime rates were more than four times higher in neighbourhoods with the most alcohol outlets compared to those with the least.
Alcohol-related death rates in areas with the most alcohol outlets were double those in areas with the least.
Alcohol-related hospitalisation rates in neighbourhoods with the most alcohol outlets were almost double those in areas with the least.
There were 40 per cent more alcohol outlets in the most deprived neighbourhoods than in the least deprived neighbourhoods; with 90 per cent more off-sales outlets specifically.
Alison Douglas, chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland, said: “This research highlights the clear relationship between the availability of alcohol and a range of serious problems suffered by communities across Scotland.
“We have long known that if we want to reduce the harm caused by alcohol, we must take action on how readily available it is. The implementation of minimum unit pricing will save the lives of hundreds of Scots, but if we are to truly turn the tide of our alcohol problem, tackling availability must be part of the mix.
“This new research should be used to help inform the Scottish Government’s next steps on alcohol prevention.”