Launching Healthier Drinking Habits Campaign
We are proud to announce the launch of the ‘Healthier Drinking Habits’ campaign, promoting healthier alcohol consumption and increasing access to support services. The campaign will be displayed in public spaces throughout Kirklees over the upcoming weeks.
The campaign contributes to a wider programme of work underway with the commissioned provider of alcohol treatment services, Change Grow Live Kirklees, to support more people to make healthier changes to their alcohol consumption.
Since the start of the work in April 2023, there has been a 30% increase in the number of people accessing support for their alcohol use, with levels of people in alcohol treatment now the highest they have been in the last five years. This initiative is part of the council’s ongoing commitment to improving public health and well-being in the community.
By addressing common barriers such as understanding the Chief Medical Officers’ low-risk drinking guidelines, knowing where to access support, and overcoming the stigma associated with excessive drinking, the campaign aims to make it easier for people to seek help and encourages residents to reflect on their own drinking habits.
The UK Chief Medical Officers’ low-risk drinking guidelines recommend that to keep health risks from alcohol to a low level, adults should not consume more than 14 units per week on a regular basis, drinking evenly over three or more days. Drinking more than this can increase the risk of serious health issues, including liver disease, heart disease, various cancers, mental health problems, and accidents due to impaired judgment and coordination.
By understanding these risks, people can make informed decisions about their alcohol consumption and take steps towards healthier drinking habits.
Councillor Beverley Addy, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:
“I’m really pleased to see more people embracing the support being offered and challenging their drinking habits. It is always a good thing for those of us who enjoy a drink to step back and take a look at whether we are doing the best for ourselves with our alcohol consumption levels.
“We know that most people in Kirklees make healthy choices with regards to alcohol, but where there is a problem, we want as many people as possible to have access to support”.
To learn more about how to access support, visit the Change Grow Live website where you can also self-refer or call 01484 353333 to speak to a team member.