People in Warwickshire are being asked to voice their views on alcohol and take part in The West Midlands Big Drink Debate.
Warwickshire County Council’s Community Safety Team, Warwickshire Drug and Alcohol Action Team, and NHS Warwickshire are supporting the campaign organised by the Department of Health.
The aim is to get a greater understanding of drinking habits and attitudes towards alcohol in Warwickshire, regardless of age or background.
An online survey and forum have been set up at www.bigdrinkdebate.co.uk to allow people to have their say. The forum will also be monitored locally by the Warwickshire DAAT, supported by the Swanswell Trust - who will reply to any posts requiring help.
Cllr Richard Hobbs, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Protection, said: “The Big Drink Debate provides a real opportunity for people to have their say, and the feedback could give us a better understanding of how to deal with alcohol issues in the future.”
Helen King, NHS Warwickshire’s Acting Director of Public Health, said: “Excessive alcohol consumption is a matter of real concern for the NHS. To give an idea of the extent of the problem, statistics show alcohol misuse costs the NHS around £1.6 billion every year, including treatment for injuries caused by heavy drinking.
“The West Midlands has the third highest alcohol related death rate in the country and cases of cirrhosis, which can be caused by heavy drinking, are increasing every year. We also know that increasing numbers of young people are drinking heavily - putting themselves at greater risk of the harmful effects of alcohol.
“The Big Drink Debate will allow people to voice their concerns about alcohol use in their community and give Warwickshire residents a chance to help find solutions.”
To find out more about 'The Big Drink Debate' visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/bigdrinkdebate or for more information on the Swanswell Trust, visit www.swanswelltrust.org. |