Seventy-two groups have urged John Swinney, Scotland's First Minister, to take immediate action to curb the rising number of alcohol-related deaths, which reached a near-record high of 1277 in 2023. The groups suggest various measures to combat this issue.
These measures are proposed to be integrated into the 2025 Programme for Government announcement. The groups argue that addressing this issue is crucial for achieving the government's priorities, such as reducing child poverty, boosting the economy, and improving public services. The economic burden of alcohol is substantial, estimated at £10 billion annually.
Critics argue that the lack of an emergency response to the declared public health emergency in 2021 is concerning, considering the continuing rise in alcohol-related deaths and illnesses. Inconsistencies in access to life-saving services such as alcohol care teams have also been highlighted. Concerns are raised about the normalisation of alcohol consumption through societal messaging.
The coalition emphasizes the need for bold action, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of treatment and advocating for an overall alcohol strategy that addresses prevention, including control over price, availability, and marketing, along with improved treatment services.