Warwickshire News Mine

Alcohol consumption is expected to soar as the football tournament kicks off and fans around Warwickshire tune in to watch the matches with a beer in hand.

The DAAT is reminding people to drink sensibly at this time by coordinating messages from a number of Warwickshire agencies who will be providing advice, support and additional services during the competition.

Kit Leck, Manager of Warwickshire County Council’s Drug and Alcohol Action Team, said: “We know that many people like to enjoy a drink when they are watching the football but it’s important that they know their limits. There’s a clear distinction between drinking sensibly and drinking excessively which has a number of serious consequences.”

Emphasising the health implications of drinking too much NHS Warwickshire’s Director of Public Health John Linnane added: “With the World Cup upon us, many people will be drinking alcohol as they enjoy the games or celebrating or commiserating with some drinks after a match. It’s important for people to remember to drink sensibly during this time to enjoy the event safely and without damaging their health.

“Short term effects of excess alcohol consumption include implications for your concentration levels, weight, sleep patterns and blood pressure. Longer term it had lead to problems such as liver disease, cancer and heart problems.”

Warwickshire County Councillor Richard Hobbs, Portfolio Holder for Community Protection said: “Reckless drinking can not only cause major damage to people’s health and wellbeing but can also lead to other problems such as crime, disorder and anti-social behaviour.”

“Warwickshire services are committed to protecting our communities and sharing information and advice to keep safe during this exciting tournament. Hopefully our messages will encourage individuals to think before they drink to make sure they don’t harm themselves or others, finish up in A&E, or even in a police cell.”

A number of services are represented by, and support the work of the DAAT including Warwickshire County Council, the local Primary Care Trusts, local service providers, Warwickshire Police, Warwickshire Probation Service and the District and Borough Councils.

To find out more about how these services are working together during the World Cup visit Warwickshire’s Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) website: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/alcohol.

Tips for safe drinking while enjoying the World Cup tournament:

Pace yourself with water or a soft drink after each alcoholic drink.
Eat before you start drinking, or at least enjoy snacks or a meal with your drink.
If you’re going out in the car to watch the football, make a decision in advance of who’ll be your designated non-drinking driver.
Or plan a safe way to get home before you go, using public transport or licensed taxi companies.

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For media enquiries contact Helen List, Communications Officer, Warwickshire County Council on 01926 414142.

Link to WCC