East Midlanders are being urged to help tackle alcohol-related harm – by taking part in the first ever East Midlands-based survey on what can be done to solve the problem of binge drinking. Ex Nottingham Forest striker Nigel Clough returned to his old club to launch the new survey.
Binge or excessive drinking is having a profound affect on our region’s health and crime rates, causing an estimated 2,000 deaths per year. The new survey has been created thanks to hundreds of views and ideas already posted on the website debate page - www.thedrinkdebate.org.uk From the 14th February 2007, the new survey can also be downloaded from this site.
Speaking at the City Ground, Mr Clough said:
“Excessive drinking and its consequences is something that affects us all in some way. For me, it is a particular issue being a father of two and manager of a football team with most of the players in their early twenties. I’m delighted to return to the City Ground to launch this survey, as it’s a great opportunity for people to have their say and hopefully influence policy makers.”
Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable Steve Green is also supporting the new survey. Speaking at the launch, he said:
"Alcohol-related crime, and in particular alcohol-related violence, is a problem affecting the whole country. Nottinghamshire Police have already made a significant impact on alcohol-related violence, particularly in Nottingham city centre, but the only way to get tackle the wider problems is by getting everyone involved in the debate.
"We need to create a climate of change in relation to people's attitudes to binge drinking, and I hope that this survey will be the first step to achieving that goal."
Regional Director of Public Health, Dr David Walker, said:
“Alcohol-related harm is a major issue for our region. Half of all violent crime and 30,000 hospital admissions were alcohol-related in 2004/5. These are disturbing statistics. By having this open debate and a region-wide survey, people will have the chance to play their part in helping inform local, regional and even national policies on reducing harmful drinking.”
The survey is due to close on Friday 18 May 2007, with the results being revealed in July 2007. Paper versions of the survey will also be available around the region at various GP practices, health centres and libraries.
