Alcohol Strategy

Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy for England
The Prime Minister's Strategy Group commissioned work to develop a Harm Reduction Strategy, specifically focusing on alcohol. The document was published in March 2004 and seeks to direct agencies to take a holistic and partnership approach to tackling alcohol problems in England. Alcohol has become a national priority, with Central Government requiring local partnerships to place alcohol high on their agendas and tackle the wide range of social problems caused by alcohol misuse. The strategy links in closely with the new Anti-Socail Behaviour legislation (ASB Act 2003). The document comprehensively covers the following key topics:

• Alcohol and its harms
• The future strategy framework
• Education and Communication
• Identification and Treatment
• Alcohol related Crime and disorder
• Supply and industry responsibility
• Delivery and Implementation

Follow this link to view and read the entire document
www.strategy.gov.uk

New Focus On Alcohol
Historically, it has been perceived by alcohol agencies and practitioners who provide treatment for alcohol related misuse and addiction, that drug services are allocated more funding and get more 'attention' when budgets are being developed and funding allocated to specific projects. This is perhaps largely due to a deeply embedded cultural acceptance of using alcohol. As it is legal, it is used by many and drinking tends not to be viewed as problematic, as very often alcohol can be enjoyed in moderation, particularly in a social setting. Drugs, on the other hand, have the ability to create a more emotive reaction amongst communities, and there is oftent a fear of drug use and its potential impact on society. Therefore, the way drug services and alcohol services are viewed by the public and the government differs. There are many issues involved here and they could lead us into many debates. Substance misuse for DAATs includes alcohol. Prior to this strategy document, Cambridgeshire DAAT worked with alcohol agencies and targeted alcohol related issues. However, the introduction of this strategy will ensure that more emphasis is placed on alcohol and that any previous work is built upon.

In the near future, Cambridgeshire will have its own alcohol strategy, that sits alongside the existing drug strategies.