The implementation of this legislation – originally passed in 2012 – is long overdue, and we believe this delay has directly contributed to increasing levels of alcohol-related harm in Scotland’s communities, including rising numbers of preventable alcohol-related deaths.
We believe that this measure of a 50p minimum price will lead to a reduction in the volume of high-strength, low-cost alcohol currently being consumed to hazardous levels.
We know that this is not a quick fix for all alcohol-related problems in Scotland, but it is a step in the right direction and is one of a variety of whole-population measures being called for in the refresh of Scotland’s Alcohol Strategy. As part of this package, we also need properly resourced treatment and recovery services which include families and which recognise their need for support in their own right.
Justina Murray, CEO of Scottish Families, said:
“We believe that this much-needed measure will encourage families to talk about the impact of alcohol on their household and act as a catalyst for individuals and their families to access support and treatment at an earlier stage.
We hope this progressive policy will kick-start a national conversation around alcohol and its impact on families, including the effects of price, marketing, and availability.
The introduction of Minimum Unit Pricing means we can now focus on fully assessing the impact of price on what and how much people drink in Scotland.
Along with our partners in the Alcohol Advocacy Coalition, we are calling for every child in Scotland to have the right to an alcohol-free childhood and we believe that Minimum Unit Pricing brings this a step closer.”
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.
For further information and comment contact:
Justina Murray, Chief Executive Officer, Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol and Drugs
Tel 0141 465 7523, Mob 07904 280669, email CEO@sfad.org.uk