Warning to local drinkers

Jan 1 2009 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

HEALTH officials in this area are gearing up for a busy 2009, tackling alcohol problems.

Alcohol adviser Alan Walker is preparing for an upsurge in clients in the new year.

Mr Walker, who runs Alcohol Support Kirklees, said: “I tend to see between three and 10 people a month, but the number in January is at the high end of the range.

“People with drink problems can have a hard time over Christmas if their family rejects them. They realise they have to change their lives.”

Mr Walker, who is not against drinking in moderation, visits people in their homes and helps them find the support they need.

Mr Walker said: “I’m not against binge drinking occasionally, but when that bingeing becomes a habit it becomes a big problem.

“Alcohol is good for entertainment and relaxing, but when you become addicted you have to stop for ever and change your philosophy on life.”

For more information visit www.alcoholsupport.com/kirklees

Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo also advises people to watch their drinking over the new year.

She said: “It’s worth taking a step back and thinking about how your festive alcohol consumption might look to an outsider.

“The new year offers a good chance to take stock. If you’re worried about your alcohol consumption, friends and family can help you reduce your drinking.”

The Government is also bringing in a new banning order to deal with problem drinkers.

From the summer, police and councils will be able to stop people who have committed alcohol-related crime from entering certain premises.

Breaching a Drinking Banning Order may lead to a fine of £2,500.