Alcohol Awareness Week 2025 takes place from 7 to 13 July and focuses on the relationship between alcohol and work. Organised by Alcohol Change UK, the annual campaign encourages individuals, organisations, and communities across the UK to reflect on their drinking habits, share knowledge, and promote healthier behaviours. This year’s theme asks how the pressures of working life – long hours, stress, blurred boundaries, and social norms – can influence alcohol consumption, often in ways we don’t realise.

New research released for the campaign reveals that nearly two thirds of UK workers report drinking alcohol for work-related reasons. Stress, anxiety, job insecurity and workplace expectations are key drivers of increased alcohol use. Yet fewer than a quarter of workers believe their alcohol consumption impacts their performance, even though evidence suggests it can reduce productivity, damage relationships and contribute to poor physical and mental health. The broader economic impact is also considerable, with alcohol-related absenteeism and presenteeism estimated to cost the English economy £4 billion a year.

Despite the scale of the issue, talking about alcohol remains more taboo in many workplaces than mental health. Over 80% of employees believe employers should take some responsibility in addressing alcohol use, with many calling for better education, clearer policies, and a shift in culture. Workers want alcohol to be discussed proactively, not only when problems arise. Alcohol Change UK is encouraging employers to build inclusive, respectful workplace environments that support all staff, including those who choose not to drink—for health, personal, or religious reasons.

This week’s campaign includes new films, practical tips, and tools to support behaviour change. It also features personal stories, like that of Patrick Fox, who shares how alcohol was once central to his work life—until rethinking that relationship changed everything. Whether you’re a team leader, freelancer, or student, Alcohol Awareness Week is a chance to reflect, take action, and be part of a growing conversation about the role of alcohol in working life.

Visit alcoholchange.org.uk to get involved, access free resources, and join the movement (UK, July 2025)

This year’s Alcohol Awareness Week takes place from 7-13 July 2025 on the theme of alcohol and work.

With longer hours, more stress, the blurring of lines between work and home, and too many workplace cultures that place booze rather than people at the centre of things, there… pic.twitter.com/AhNHswit6t

— Alcohol Change UK (@AlcoholChangeUK) June 13, 2025