According to data released by National Records for Scotland, 1,277 people died in 2023 from causes solely related to alcohol, marking a slight increase from the previous year’s figure of 1,276. Alcohol Focus Scotland (AFS) highlighted that while the rise is minimal, it reflects an ongoing public health issue that remains serious. The organization emphasized that these figures only represent alcohol-specific deaths and do not account for deaths due to alcohol-related accidents, suicides, or illnesses, which could more than double the actual number of fatalities linked to alcohol. AFS has called for more comprehensive governmental action, pointing out that the heavy drinking patterns developed during the pandemic continue to contribute to these high death rates.

Laura Mahon, Deputy Chief Executive of AFS, stressed the need for a “radical step change” in the Scottish Government’s response, noting that current measures are inadequate given the scale of the issue. Mahon also highlighted the importance of preventative measures, such as restricting alcohol marketing and improving support services for those struggling with alcohol dependency. Louise Stewart, Director of Service Delivery at WithYou, added that addressing the cultural norms surrounding alcohol consumption is essential for reducing harm. Both organizations underscored the importance of early intervention and support for individuals with alcohol problems, urging the government to provide clearer leadership and resources to tackle this crisis effectively.

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Read more from Alcohol Focus Scotland (Scotland, September 2024)