Council offers advice on alcohol levels

Rochdale Borough Council is aiming to educate residents about the level of alcohol contained in many of the market’s most popular products.

The project is being delivered by the council’s Drugs and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) in partnership with the Local Pharmaceutical Committee.

It aims to raise awareness of the range of alcohol strengths available to purchase within the borough and educate drinkers about the risks associated with high-volume products.

Promotional scratch cards containing information about the level of alcohol in many products will be distributed to residents throughout September, October and November.

Councillor Cecile Biant, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Regulation, said: “Many people may be consuming more alcohol than they realise, particularly when drinking at home. This project will help to educate residents about the levels of alcohol contained in their usual choices and will enable them to make better informed decisions about the products they choose to consume.

“Initiating a conversation about alcohol can be awkward but the alcohol scratch cards enable pharmacists and their staff to start conversations in a non-intrusive and non-judgmental way.”

Participating pharmacies have also been trained to deliver a more in-depth service to their customers regarding alcohol content, including advice about the potential health impacts of drinking above safe levels and tips for cutting down.

Pharmacy staff can also offer referral to specialist alcohol treatment services when needed.

The impact of the project will be evaluated upon its culmination at the end of November.

For further information or support, please contact the access and engagement team ‘Renaissance’ on 01706 924883.