FRIDAY, 14 NOVEMBER, 2014

EMBARGOED UNTIL PHOTO OPPORTUNITY – INFORMATION STALL, 10AM, MONDAY, 17 NOVEMBER, 2014, NINEWELLS MAIN CONCOURSE, DUNDEE

Dundee Alcohol and Drug Partnership marks Alcohol Awareness Week

How does alcohol impact on your life? That is the question people in Dundee are being urged to consider for Alcohol Awareness Week 2014 (17-23 November).

The Dundee Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) has planned several events across the city to mark the annual campaign.

The theme for Alcohol Awareness Week this year is ‘Facing our Alcohol Problem – taking back our health and high streets.’

During the week the Dundee ADP team will be highlighting the small changes individuals can make to help them drink more responsibly and get more out of their day, week and weekend.

Stalls are being held in the main concourse at Ninewells Hospital on Monday, 17 November between 9am and 1pm and in the Overgate Centre on Thursday, 20 November between 11am and 2pm, to provide information and advice about the safe consumption of alcohol.

People will be encouraged to consider the effects of regularly drinking above the recommended alcohol guidelines of no more than 3-4 units. Information will also be available on how making small changes, such as alternating alcohol with soft drinks or water and having two alcohol-free days a week, can lead to health improvements.

Chair of the Dundee ADP David Lynch said, “This year, the positive decision by the Dundee Licensing Board to declare the city overprovided for all alcohol premises will help encourage individuals and communities to develop a responsible approach to the consumption of alcohol.

“However, alcohol misuse continues to have a serious impact on individuals, families and communities and we will continue with efforts to encourage individuals to consume alcohol responsibly.

“The Dundee Focus On Alcohol project will continue to work with local communities and individuals to change their approach to the consumption of alcohol.”

The Alcohol Awareness Week campaign provides people with hints and tips on how to drink

responsibly, giving them ideas for small changes that can help them manage the amount of alcohol they

drink.

These top tips for responsible drinking include:

• Stick to your limits – no more than 3-4 units a day for men and 2-3 units a day for women

• Alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks or water

• Cut down – have at least two alcohol-free days every week

• Eat before and while you drink – food helps absorb alcohol

• Keep a drinking diary, noting how much you drink and where – for a better idea of your alcohol

intake

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134