Surrey Alcohol Campaign

Background
In recent years, alcohol consumption in the UK has risen rapidly, causing increasing concern about the cost of associated harms both nationally and locally (SEPHO, 2007). The North West Public Health Observatory (NWPHO) developed alcohol profiles for England, including estimated prevalence for hazardous, harmful and binge drinkers by local authority. Data indicates that 7 out of the 11 boroughs in Surrey are in the top ten nationally for hazardous drinking, with Runnymede having the highest prevalence of hazardous drinking in the country. All 11 boroughs have higher prevalence for hazardous drinking than the England average (NWPHO, 2007).

Surrey's Big Drink Debate and Alcohol Campaign
Surrey's Big Drink Debate (BDD) was an extensive consultation exercise undertaken during 2008 for a six month period. The main purpose of the BDD was to gain the views of residents on key issues relating to alcohol and to raise awareness of harms caused by excessive consumption. The information obtained has been used to help inform the development of a Surrey-wide multi-agency strategy; the overall aim of which is to reduce the harms associated with alcohol misuse in Surrey.

The results to the BDD indicated that only 16% (n=3964) of respondents were aware of the correct sensible daily drinking guidelines. In response to this and as a key aspect of the Surrey's Alcohol Strategy, NHS Surrey and Surrey Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) co-ordinated an alcohol campaign across the county. The campaign was based on the national 'Know Your Limits' message, concerned with raising awareness about safe and sensible drinking. Activities were kicked off by Alcohol Awareness Week 2009 (Oct 19th-23rd) which was supported by all key stakeholders and members of Surrey's Alcohol Strategy Group. Media interviews took place and various events were held by boroughs and districts. The campaign then ran continuously up to the New Year. National 'Know Your Limits' materials were distributed widely and articles with information on safe drinking were included in resident magazines.

As a way of monitoring the impact of this work, NHS Surrey and Surrey DAAT would like to ask residents two further questions. The responses will help to inform us how effective the campaign has been and where we need to focus our efforts in the future. We would be very grateful if you would take the time to answer two questions online. Opens in a new window

For more information on Surrey's Big Drink Debate and to read the full report visit: www.surreybigdrinkdebate.nhs.uk Opens in a new window