News

Ongoing alcohol deaths crisis highlights need for a “radical step change” in Government’s response

1,277 people died in 2023 from causes solely attributable to alcohol, according to figures published today, Tuesday 10^th September, by National Records for Scotland. This is a slight increase on the figures from 2022 (1,276).

Alcohol Focus Scotland says whilst there has been no dramatic increase on the previous year, it cannot be read as a sign of success or a long-term trend and the figures remain ‘alarmingly and unacceptably’ high.  AFS says the figures highlight the need for a ‘radical step change’ in responding to what the Scottish Government has itself declared as a public health emergency.

Alcohol specific deaths have changed little (up by one or 0.08%) on the previous year. However, the new figures mean that almost four people died every single day in 2023 because of alcohol in Scotland.

Alarmingly, these numbers represent only the tip of the iceberg. Today’s figures do not include other deaths due to alcohol-related accidents, suicides, or illnesses such as cancer, cardiovascular disease. When we include these, it is likely that more than two times as many of our fellow Scots, friends and family members have lost their lives to alcohol.

Commenting on the figures, Laura Mahon, Deputy Chief Executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland said:

“Alcohol deaths continue to be alarmingly and unacceptably high. They have been driven by heavy drinking patterns established during the pandemic which unfortunately show no real sign of improving. We need a radical step change if we are to turn this terrible tide of alcohol harm, which claims the lives of friends and family and impacts every one of us.

“Well over a year ago, Alcohol Focus Scotland, along with 30 other organisations, called for an emergency response that is proportionate to the scale of the problem. Despite the Scottish Government recognising alcohol as a public health emergency, there simply has not been one.

“We need a radical step change in how we are responding to this crisis. As a matter of urgency the Scottish Government must provide leadership by setting a clear national vision and developing a coherent plan for delivery with health boards, local authorities and the third sector. Tacking alcohol onto the National Mission on Drugs is not good enough, there are distinct issues that need to be addressed not least because alcohol is a legal and highly normalised drug.

 “We have to improve help to those struggling right now. Services tell us people are presenting later and with more complex needs. By identifying people earlier and offering easier access to support we can prevent problems worsening. Too many people are currently slipping through the net. The Scottish Government is reviewing the Public Health Supplement, which would apply to alcohol retailers, as part of the upcoming budget. This could raise £57 million a year that could be used to improve support.

“The Scottish Government also needs to deliver on preventative measures such as restricting alcohol marketing, which will reduce the likelihood of our children developing problems in future. It is very disappointing that the Scottish Government did not reaffirm its commitment to consult on specific alcohol marketing proposals in 2024, in its Programme for Government, another worrying indicator that the urgency we need is currently lacking.

“These are not just numbers. Most of us will know someone with an alcohol problem. These are our friends, colleagues and family members. It is the duty of all political parties to treat alcohol as the public health emergency it is and help save the lives of the people we know and love.”

Louise Stewart, Director of Service Delivery at WithYou, said:

“Today, I would encourage people across Scotland to think about their relationship with alcohol. This doesn’t simply mean how many drinks you have in a week, it also means how you respond when a friend or family member tells you they’re ‘having a night off’.

“We need to see a cultural shift so that alcohol is no longer at the centre of our social lives, and so that it’s ok to say no. At the same time, we need to ensure that people who need support with their drinking feel comfortable coming forward - and that support is available when and where they need it.

“As well as delivering community-based services across Scotland, WithYou offers a free and confidential webchat. This is a great first point of contact for anyone who is worried about their alcohol use or that of a loved one. Visit wearewithyou.org.uk today.”