Scotland marked its first Alcohol Action Day on Thursday, 12 November 2026, bringing together organisations and individuals to raise awareness of alcohol-related harm and the need for better support. Organised by Alcohol Focus Scotland in partnership with organisations across the sector, the new annual initiative aims to encourage open conversations about alcohol, highlight existing services and identify gaps in support. The theme of the inaugural event was “Support”, emphasising that everyone affected by alcohol should be able to access help when they need it.
The need for action is clear. According to Alcohol Focus Scotland, more than one million people in Scotland drink at levels that harm their health, while approximately 50 people die from alcohol-related causes every week. New polling released to coincide with Alcohol Action Day found that 60% of Scottish adults have worried about their own drinking or that of someone close to them. At the same time, one in three said they would not feel confident that they or someone they care about could access the right support to reduce or stop drinking. These findings highlight the gap between recognising alcohol-related problems and knowing where to turn for help.
Alcohol Focus Scotland used the occasion to call for improved access to treatment, recovery and support services. The organisation launched a petition urging the Scottish Government to conduct a national needs assessment, identify gaps in existing services and ensure sustainable funding. The campaign also highlighted the importance of reducing stigma, which can prevent people from seeking help, and recognising the different forms that support can take, from specialist treatment to encouragement from family, friends and peer groups. Alongside better services, the organisation stressed the importance of wider policy measures to reduce alcohol-related harm.
The initiative also received attention in the Scottish Parliament. On 11 November, Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon submitted a parliamentary motion recognising the first Alcohol Action Day Scotland and highlighting the findings of the new survey. Supported by members from different political parties, the motion acknowledged the need for improved services and affirmed that everyone affected by alcohol should be able to receive appropriate support when they need it. With Alcohol Action Day planned as an annual event, its organisers hope to create a lasting opportunity to discuss alcohol-related harm, strengthen public awareness and give people with lived experience a greater voice in shaping solutions.
Find more from Alcohol Focus Scotland (Scotland, November 2026)
