Northern Ireland Alcohol Awareness Week took place from 15 to 21 June 2026, under the theme of “better choices”. The campaign was led by the Public Health Agency (PHA) in collaboration with Northern Ireland’s five Drug and Alcohol Connections Services, encouraging people to better understand alcohol units, think about how much they are drinking, and consider alternatives to alcohol.

A key focus of the week was home drinking. According to the 2024/2025 Northern Ireland Health Survey, 46% of drinkers reported drinking most of their alcohol at home. This matters because it is easy to lose track of how much is being poured, especially when people free-pour larger measures than they would usually receive in a bar or restaurant. The campaign reminded people that alcohol is a powerful drug and that even small changes, such as keeping track of drinks, drinking a bit less, choosing non-alcoholic alternatives, or building in alcohol-free days, can help reduce risks.

The health message behind the campaign was clear. The risk of serious illnesses, including heart attack, stroke and certain cancers, increases the more alcohol people drink regularly. In 2024, 397 alcohol-specific deaths were registered in Northern Ireland, and almost 65% of those deaths were among men. To keep health risks from alcohol to a lower level, UK Chief Medical Officers advise that it is safest not to drink more than 14 units a week, spread over three or more days, with several alcohol-free days each week.

The campaign also continued beyond Alcohol Awareness Week through the Living Well programme. Throughout June and July, the PHA is working with community pharmacies across Northern Ireland on the “Know your units” campaign, offering information leaflets and a unit calculator wheel to help people understand drinking guidelines and make more informed choices. The wider message is not only about individual health, but also about how alcohol can affect families, relationships, judgement and wellbeing.

Find more from Drugs and Alcohol Northern Ireland (Northern Ireland, June 2026)