The figures published today by the National Records of Scotland show a 10% increase in the number of alcohol-related deaths in Scotland for 2016 bringing the total number to 1265. Behind each one of these preventable deaths is an invisible family story – from those living under the same roof to those who have lost contact or become estranged from their family. Many of these families are left to deal with the impact of loss and grief on their own with no support for themselves.
This is the highest figure recorded since 2010 and we know families can be a protective factor for many people with alcohol problems. Families can help keep the person safe, support them in getting into treatment and in many cases struggle to keep them alive. These statistics are yet another reminder that more needs to be done to recognise the role families play when alcohol is so present and affordable within our society. We want to see greater support for the families who support their loved one through alcohol problems each day and this can be helped with whole-population measures such as minimum unit pricing.
Notes to Editors:
About Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol & Drugs:
Scottish Families’ is a membership organisation and hub of a national network of family support groups across Scotland providing information and support through:
- National Helpline – 08080 10 10 11,
- National Telehealth programme,
- Bereavement support service,
- Website & web-chat facility, www.sfad.org.uk
- Direct support through regional/local family support groups.
National Records of Scotland alcohol-related death figures – https://www.nrscotland.gov.uk/statistics-and-data/statistics/statistics-by-theme/vital-events/deaths/alcohol-related-deaths/main-points
For further information and comment contact:
Justina Murray, Interim CEO, Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs
Tel 0141 465 7523, Mob 0790 428 0669, email CEO@sfad.org.uk.