Holyrood agrees continuation of policy and increase to 65p
The minimum price per unit of alcohol will increase by 15 pence after the Scottish Parliament approved plans to continue with the public health measure.
As part of a ‘sunset clause’ when Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) legislation was introduced in 2018, it had been due to end on 30 April, however today’s vote by MSPs ensures its continuation.
In addition, a price increase was required to counteract the effects of inflation, with a rise to 65p selected as the Scottish Government seeks to increase the positive effects of the policy.
The increase will take effect on 30 September 2024.
Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Christina McKelvie said: “I’m pleased that Parliament has agreed to continue MUP legislation and to raise the level it is set at.
“Research commended by internationally-renowned public health experts estimated that our world-leading policy has saved hundreds of lives, likely averted hundreds of alcohol-attributable hospital admissions and contributed to reducing health inequalities.
“Despite this progress, deaths caused specifically by alcohol rose last year – and my sympathy goes out to all those who have lost a loved one. However, as a letter to The Lancet by public health experts makes clear, it is likely that without MUP there would have been an even greater number of alcohol-specific deaths.
“As we have made clear, the policy aims to reduce alcohol-related harm by reducing consumption at population level, with a particular focus on targeting people who drink at hazardous and harmful levels.
“We believe the proposals strike a reasonable balance between public health benefits and any effects on the alcoholic drinks market and impact on consumers. Evidence suggests there has not been a significant impact on business and industry as a whole but we will continue to monitor this.”
Proposal to continue policy and increase level to 65p
Plans to continue setting a minimum price per unit of alcohol and to increase it by 15p will go before the Scottish Parliament for approval.
As part of a ‘sunset clause’ when Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) legislation was introduced in 2018, it will end on 30 April this year unless Parliament votes to keep it.
A price increase is required to counteract the effects of inflation and 65p has been selected as the Scottish Government seeks to increase the positive effects of the policy.
If Parliament agrees, it will take effect on 30 September 2024.
Deputy First Minister Shona Robison said: “Research commended by internationally-renowned public health experts estimated that our world-leading Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) policy has saved hundreds of lives, likely averted hundreds of alcohol-attributable hospital admissions and contributed to reducing health inequalities.
“Despite this progress, deaths caused specifically by alcohol rose last year – and my sympathy goes out to all those who have lost a loved one.
“We believe the proposals, which are supported by Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer, strike a reasonable balance between public health benefits and any effects on the alcoholic drinks market and impact on consumers.
“Evidence suggests there has not been a significant impact on business and industry as a whole.
“Alongside MUP, we will continue to invest in treatment and a wide range of other measures, including funding for Alcohol and Drug Partnerships which rose to £112 million in 2023-24.”
CAMRA: Action plan needed to save Scottish pubs from permanent closure after MUP announcement
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) says ministers need to value the role of local pubs as part of Scotland’s social fabric and protect them from closure.
CAMRA is calling on the Scottish Government to come up with an action plan to save the nation’s pubs following today’s announcement on increasing the minimum unit price for alcohol to 65p from 30 September.
Representing pubgoers, the consumer group believes that policies like Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) – and a cut in tax specifically on pints served in pubs, which it is calling for ahead of the UK Government’s Budget in March – can encourage people to drink in the regulated setting of the pub instead of drinking cheaper supermarket alcohol at home.
But the Campaign fears that uprating MUP won’t have an impact on its own to encourage pub-going and to safeguard the future of hundreds of community locals at risk of permanent closure due to crippling business rates and a possible return of Scottish Government plans to ban alcohol advertising.
Commenting on the MUP increase, CAMRA’s Scotland Director Stuart McMahon said:“Our pubs and social clubs are a vital part of our social fabric, bringing people together and helping to tackle loneliness and social isolation. But too many are being forced to close due to crippling costs, with pubs in Scotland shutting up shop at a higher rate than elsewhere in the UK.
“Sadly, the Scottish Government doesn’t seem to understand the importance of protecting our local pubs as community meeting places and as a safe, regulated place to enjoy a pint with friends and family, with all the wellbeing benefits that go with it. Once our pubs have closed down, or have been converted into flats or shops, or demolished altogether, it is too late to get them back for the communities they once served.
“That’s why we are calling on the Scottish Government to bring forward an action plan to protect and promote pubs as a force for good in our society and to recognise the mental health and wellbeing benefits of drinking responsibly in your local.
“CAMRA urgently wants to see a rethink on help for pubs with business rates, the closing of loopholes in the planning system that allow pubs to be demolished by developers without the need for planning permission and a commitment not to cripple valued local pubs and independent breweries by bringing back draconian measures to ban alcohol advertising and sponsorship.”
GMB Scotland responds to ministerial announcement on Minimum Unit Pricing
GMB Scotland has urged the Scottish Government to urgently reconsider plans to increase minimum unit pricing (MUP) for alcohol by 30%.
The union, with members across the drinks industry, warned the policy is already risking jobs and investment while its health benefits remain unproven.
Deputy first minister Shona Robison today revealed the government’s intention to continue the policy beyond its initial five years while increasing the MUP from 50p to 65p.
David Hume, GMB Scotland organiser in the drinks industry, said: “The case for continuing with MUP never mind increasing it gets weaker with every piece of research published.
“Ministers must be guided by reliable research and data not wishful thinking and good intentions.
“The potential consequences of this policy are too damaging for it to be justified with anecdote, hunches and hope.
“Five years ago, we were told this policy would help save lives of problem drinkers. Now we are told it is about curbing the intake of moderate drinkers but there is no substantive evidence to suggest it does either.”
“The health benefits of this policy remain theoretical at best but the risk of undermining one of Scotland’s most successful industries threatening investment and jobs could not be more real.
“It is reckless to consider extending this policy and increasing MUP when there is no substantive evidence that it does any good.”
The union polled workers across the brewing, whisky and spirits last year when 64% said MUP should be scrapped because it needlessly risked jobs and investment while doing nothing to discourage problem drinking while a third said it should remain at 50p or be reduced.
Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK
Healthy Heart Tip: Dry January
Dry January is back, challenging you to become alcohol-free for one whole month. Drinking alcohol on a regular basis can increase your risk of developing heart diseases, increase your blood pressure and cause weight gain.
Getting used to a new alcohol-free lifestyle can be hard, see our tips below to help you this January:
Changing your behaviour
Changing your behaviours can be difficult and it may be beneficial to find alternative habits to distract you when you would usually be drinking.
You might find it useful to try cooking healthy meals or go for a walk in the local park instead of having a drink. You could even take up a new hobby or sport!
Finding alternatives
Finding an alternative drink to the alcoholic one you usually have will help you to refrain from drinking.
There are many non-alcoholic options for you to try mocktails, alcohol-free beer or soft drinks are a few.
Knowing the benefits
There are a number of benefits to reducing your alcohol intake, you will be reducing your calorie intake which could help you to lose weight, lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and ultimately reduce your risk of developing heart diseases.
You may also feel improvements in your sleep quality, mental health and energy levels.
Reducing your intake
It is perfectly acceptable to enjoy an alcoholic drink from time to time but by reducing your overall consumption you will be benefitting your health.
Below are some tips to help you:
Have a glass of water after every alcoholic drink Have smaller drinks or bottled beer Have lower-strength drinks Have several alcohol-free days each week Cut down with your friends and family by supporting each other.
PEOPLE embarking on Dry January need to wait at least 10 days before they see the full impact of ditching the booze, a top expert has explained.
Counsellor and author Lynn Crilly said removing alcohol from your life for a month can bring “huge health benefits” that can set you on a path to a healthier and happier 2024.
Lynn said: “For moderate drinkers going alcohol free for a month can be challenging, but it is achievable and healthy. The same may not be the case for daily drinkers or those more dependent on alcohol and these people should seek professional advice and support before they do so.
“The first few days are likely to be the hardest as there may be some withdrawal symptoms such as difficulty in sleeping, and you are likely to also experience some hangover-like symptoms such as cloudy head, agitation, tiredness potentially this is due to lack of hydration.
“By day five you may be craving sugar that the alcohol is no longer giving you, but on the plus side you should feel sharper and notice an improvement in your concentration. By day seven it gets even better because your sleep should improve significantly. By day ten you should be feeling less sluggish, more energised, and raring to go. The full benefits will kick in.
” In the long run it reduces the risk of diabetes, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure and reduces levels of cancer related proteins in the blood.”
Outlining the main benefits of Dry January, Lynn says:
Detox:
Taking a rest from drinking alcohol can give your liver a much-needed break and time to re heal itself from the festive overindulging.
Alcohol is known as diuretic, which means it causes you to wee more than if you just drink water, this makes it harder for the body to hydrate itself which leads to dry skin. Reducing the level of alcohol will give your skin a more refreshed look and make your eyes brighter.
Often more calories are consumed by food rather than drink, meaning a potentially higher vitamin intake, leading to your skin looking healthy and glowing.
Improved Sleep:
One of the first things that people notice when doing dry January is that their sleeping pattern improves drastically and they experience an increase in their energy levels. While alcohol can help people to fall asleep faster, the quality of the sleep is less restful and you spend less time in ‘real ‘sleep. On the other hand, days when you do not drink can lead to a much better sleep, making it far easier to wake up in the mornings.
Feeling less bloated or even drop a few pounds: Depending on how much you were drinking before you may find you shed a few pounds over the course of the month as alcohol is liquid calories which many do not replace with food, also the craved junky food at the end of a boozy evening will also be of the menu!
Save money:
If you have been regularly spending money on alcohol it can really add up and put a dent in your budget, so by not shelling out for it you could put that money by and give yourself a treat at the end of the month such as a massage or a new outfit!
TIPS ON HOW TO BE SUCCESSFUL
Begin writing a journal:
At the beginning of the month write down the reasons you wanted to take a break from the drink, and the positive changes that are being made. Then if sometime during the month you are facing a particularly challenging time refer back to the journal to remember why you started.
Start a new workout regime:
Since drinking can leave you feeling slow and sluggish, January may be the perfect time to start a new fitness regime. Having the new surge of energy will benefit you when exercising and release those positive endorphins.
Look at new ways to cope:
If a glass of wine was your way of winding down at the end of a day, it may be worth looking at other options such as yoga, reading, meditating, going for a walk or even a hot bath with lots of bubble bath can all help you to wind down.
Look for a replacement:
If drinking has become a habit, then it is a good idea to find a replacement to sip, sparkling water with lemon juice, or pour a can of flavoured tonic water into a wine glass and sip slowly, it is surprising how quickly one habit can be replaced with another especially when it makes you feel better.
Team Up with a friend:
It is always easier to keep motivated if you are doing Dry January with a friend. Encourage friends and family to get involved, so that you are accountable and support each other or even raise some money for charity.
Keep Busy:
The first few days will be the hardest, so it is always a good idea to have things planned to keep you busy, do things that are fun and will help to take your mind off drinking, because the less time you must think about it the easier it will become.
Be Kind to yourself:
Drinking has become so ingrained in our culture and everyday life, whether you’re celebrating a wedding or mourning the loss of a friend, it can be difficult to abstain from alcohol for a whole month.
People are often their own worst critic and can get down on themselves – and give up on their dry month if they have one drink, but please remember the whole point of attempting a month without alcohol is not to feel bad about yourself.
The goal is to become more mindful of the role it plays in your life, if it leads to you drinking less than you normally would, then that must be a win even if you still enjoyed the odd glass of wine.
Two thirds (66%) of Scottish drinkers feel their country has an unhealthy relationship with alcohol which lowers to 63% in Northern Ireland, 56% in England and 38% in Wales.
But only one in ten Scottish drinkers (10%) feel they personally have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.
Concern in Scotland is most likely to be for a friend’s drinking, with 36% of those with a concern indicating it relates to a friend, rising to 48% among men.
Two thirds of adult drinkers in Scotland (66%) feel that their country has an unhealthy relationship with alcohol according to the Drinkaware Annual Monitor, published today (Thursday 30 November).
The figure lowers to 63% in Northern Ireland, 56% in England and 38% in Wales.
While many Scottish drinkers believe their country as a whole has an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, when asked about their own or, family and friends, only one in ten felt it was unhealthy (10% & 10%).
The Drinkaware Monitor 2023 is the annual ‘state of the nation’ survey conducted for Drinkaware by YouGov, that provides an insight into the drinking habits of the UK. This year’s Monitor looked at how we talk about alcohol and have honest conversations.
The Monitor asked 10,473 people from across the UK about their perceptions, and those surveyed highlighted their concerns about how alcohol is seen in society.
Karen Tyrell, Chief Executive of the charity Drinkaware said: “Our research shows the difference between perception and reality when it comes to our relationship with alcohol. Most people think the country has a drinking problem, but it is not them, it is someone else.
“We need to be more open and honest about our own relationship with alcohol and talk more about our drinking habits. We can learn from the change we’ve seen in how we talk about mental health, and make people feel more comfortable talking about their drinking.
“One way to understand more about your drinking habits is by doing the Drinkaware Drinking Check. This short quiz is a quick and easy way to find out if you’re putting your health at risk and is a great way to encourage a conversation.”
The report found that two thirds of (65%) Scottish adults do not think our society is understanding of people with drinking problems, the highest across the nations.
When it comes to Scottish people who are concerned about someone else’s drinking, under one in five (16%) haven’t done anything specific, 56% have spoken to them about it, 42% have made a comment about it to them, and 26% have encouraged them to seek help or treatment.
Having a conversation is more effective in helping people take action about their own drinking, rather than making a comment. Across the UK, only 32% of cases resulted in action when a comment was made, compared to 44% when a conversation was initiated.
The Monitor focus groups revealed that conversations can have an impact on an individual’s drinking, but this can take time and often happens after several conversations. Their effectiveness depends on the drinker’s openness to the issues with their drinking.
The Monitor is the only UK-wide nationally representative survey that dives into peoples’ drinking habits and behaviour. Looking at Scotland specifically, it also found:
Those drinking at home alone in Scotland at least once a week is down from 23% in 2021 to 20% in 2023.
Only 25% of Scottish adults would feel very comfortable having a conversation with family and 21% with friends about their drinking, compared to 35% with a partner or spouse.
Women feel most uncomfortable about having this conversation, with a third (30%) not very comfortable or not comfortable at all starting a conversation about a friend’s drinking (vs. 23% of men).
Wine is the most commonly consumed drink among Scottish drinkers, with approximately three in ten Scottish drinkers always or often drink it (31%), then beer and spirits are tied second (29%) when drinking.
Pubs in rural Scottish areas are more likely to get support from their local community than those living in urban areas (19% vs 12% in urban areas).
People can learn more about their drinking habits and get free tips and advice by doing the Drinkaware Drinking Check.
This short quiz helps you find out if your drinking is putting your health at serious risk, visit www.drinkaware.co.uk
A full copy of The Monitor 2023 report is available to download for free at:
The two alcohol-free companies collaborate for the first-time to create the ‘WilMore Spritz’, a refreshing alternative spritz cocktail with notes of ginger, grapefruit and rosemary – all the complexity of the perfect spritz, but without the alcohol
In celebration of National Spritz Day on 1st August, Edinburgh’s Talonmore is teaming-up with Wilfred’s for the first-time to create a limited-edition non-alcoholic spritz cocktail, the ‘WilMore Spritz’.
On Talonmore’s website, the companies are offering a special bundle deal with 20% off both brands for consumers to purchase the bottles and make the delicious spritz cocktail at-home.
Talonmore’s distinctive taste is fired by the spice of ginger and Assam tea whilst complemented with malty notes and fruit sweetness. Pairing with Wilfred’s complex bittersweet orange & rosemary aperitif, the ‘WilMore Spritz’ offers an exquisitely crafted, impeccably refreshing non-alcoholic spritz.
‘WILMORE SPRITZ’ – Fill a large wine glass with plenty of ice – Add 50ml – Wilfred’s NA Aperitif, then 50ml – Talonmore NA Spirit – Add a dash of Premium Light Tonic Water (100ml) and stir briefly – Garnish with Grapefruit & Rosemary
The popularity of the spritz serve has swept the nation, with CGA data reporting that 78% of consumers would choose a spritz serve at least occasionally. The spritz is a longer drink, meaning it can be consumed over a greater period of time, confirming the narrative of cocktail lovers wanting less, yet more premium drinks.
Talonmore is a Scottish based, family run business established in Edinburgh in 2020. The latest batch of Talonmore includes a brand-new look & feel, with an upgraded label and eye-catching flagship red foil.
Using a mix of rooted and plant-based ingredients and inspired by Edinburgh’s festival spirit and history of innovation, Talonmore was created to provide an exceptional alcohol-free drink that can be enjoyed without compromising health, control and taste.
Choosing brewing methods of manufacture, rather than distilling, Talonmore have developed a unique beverage that ensures flavour is at the forefront, replicating the experience of drinking a dark spirit.
Talonmore can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with a mixer or in a multitude of non-alcoholic cocktails such as the WilMore Spritz. In 2022, Talonmore was awarded Silver at the International Wine and Spirits Competition scoring an impressive 92 points out of 100.
Wilfred’s was created by founder Chris Wilfred Hughes after being increasingly frustrated by the uninspired, overly sweet and usually unhealthy non-alcoholic options available, both at home and when out.
Aiming to reinvent the spritz, he decided flavour, quality and complexity were of the utmost importance. Inspired by travels around the world his journey eventually led him back home to the authentic flavours he associates most with London – freshly picked rosemary from his mother’s garden, and the bitter oranges in his father’s homemade marmalade.
Made in Britain with natural botanicals, 0% alcohol and only 20 calories per serving, Wilfred’s aperitif pairs impeccably with Talonmore and premium tonic water to create the refreshing ‘WilMore Spritz’.
Lewis Kennedy, Managing Director at Talonmore Drinks Company, said: “Talonmore has admired Wilfred’s for some time now. We always thought the flavours of both brands would work perfectly together. After an exciting chat with Chris and a delicious spritz sampling session, we were absolutely right.
“We only see the popularity of alcohol-free serves getting more and more popular. Talonmore is all about offering choice and versatility and with National Spritz Day coming up, what a perfect opportunity to partner with another forward-thinking alcohol-free brand to create the ‘WilMore Spritz’. We hope this will become a household serve for alcohol-free fans this summer, and many summers to come.
“The ‘WilMore Spritz’ offers the perfect serve for all day summer fun. Enjoying the sun in style, with a mix of refreshing notes of ginger, grapefruit and rosemary – a gorgeously refreshing and complex spritz, just without the alcohol.”
With over 8 million adults in the UK looking to reduce their alcohol intake, Talonmore is designed to shake up the non-alcoholic drinks market through championing the adventurous lifestyle that could normally be sacrificed with traditional alcohol.
Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by the Health Promotion and Education Team at Heart Research UK
Healthy Heart Tip: Back to Basics
12th of July is National Simplicity Day in the UK, and in honour of the day dedicated to simple living, this healthy tip takes heart health back to the basics.
Our health, the food we eat and the exercise we do (or don’t do) are hot topics and it can feel overwhelming and far from simple.
In this week’s healthy tip, we are stripping back the noise and detailing a few easy things we can all start doing from today for a healthy heart.
Mediterranean diet
This way of eating emphasises eating lots of plant-based foods and healthy fats and can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Eat lots of fruit and vegetables, wholegrains (brown rice, wholemeal bread etc), nuts and seeds and extra virgin olive oil. Eat moderate amounts of fish (especially omega-3 rich fish like salmon) and dairy products. Eat little meat (opt for lean chicken and turkey), sweets, sugary drinks, and processed foods.
30 minutes of exercise
Exercise for 30 minutes at least five days a week. Adults should be active for 150 minutes a week and you can break this up however you like.
Start small if you need to. If you don’t currently have an exercise routine, a brisk walk for 30 minutes a day, five days a week will significantly impact your heart health for the better.
Alcohol & smoking
If you smoke, seek support and work with a professional to help you stop. There is support available so be sure to ask for help. Drinking small amounts of alcohol is unlikely to cause serious consequences alongside a healthy lifestyle, but heavy drinking is a big risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
The NHS recommends drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week spread over three or more days, but also state that there is no completely safe level of drinking so skip the alcohol where possible.
For more tips on how to stay healthy, sign up for weekly healthy tips at:
The Lothians & Edinburgh Abstinence Programme (LEAP) has become the first rehabilitation service in Scotland to hire people with lived experience to bridge the gap between community treatment and rehab.
LEAP, run by NHS Lothian and partners, is the only therapeutic community rehabilitation for alcohol and other drug dependencies offered by the NHS in Scotland.
Before the launch of this programme, the service was supported by volunteers with addiction and recovery experience but now officially employees six Peer Bridgers.
Peer Bridgers are people with lived experience of addiction and recovery whose role is to support others through rehabilitation and help improve outcomes.
Recruitment began earlier this year, with the most recent bridger joining in June 2023.
Phil Hayes (above, right) is one of the new Peer Bridgers now employed by LEAP.
Phil suffered from substance misuse issues earlier in his life but, thanks to a community programme, moved into recovery over 20 years ago.
Since then, he spent several years learning about the behaviours that led to his own issues around addiction.
Phil said: “I think society in general views recovery as either unattainable or a continual hard slog of fighting your inner demons day in, day out. I want to be able to show people that isn’t the case.
“With the right support and guidance, as well as some honest hard work, anyone can move completely into recovery and be both happy and of value within their wider community.
“The peer bridging project allows me, and the rest of the team, to engage with people from the moment they decide to change their lives.
“We can provide continuity of support and guidance for them to build a life for themselves outside of addiction.”
Recently published research has shown that residential rehabilitation programmes, like LEAP, are effective in reducing the use of substances and have a positive impact on the overall health and quality of life of those with substance use issues.
Research also shows that positive changes in behaviour after residential rehabilitation can be maintained over time.
David McCartney, Clinical Lead for LEAP, said: “Tackling Scotland’s drug and alcohol-related deaths and improving outcomes from substance misuse treatments, including residential rehabilitation, is a national priority.
“LEAP is a unique programme in Scotland. In other areas, the road to rehab can be much more complicated so we’re very lucky in Lothian to have this service.
“There are few people in Scotland whose lives are untouched by the harms of addiction, whether experienced by individuals, their families, friends or colleagues – addiction affects us all.
“We support our service- users through medical and psychosocial interventions within a therapeutic community setting, giving individuals an opportunity to heal from trauma and addiction and continuing to support them after treatment.”
LEAP is part of the services provided by the Addiction Treatment and Recovery Care Directorate in NHS Lothian and is delivered in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, the Cyrenians, Encompass and Alcohol and Drug Partnerships.
The service is funded thanks to both Scottish Government as well as the Alcohol and Drug Partnerships.
Report concludes policy has saved lives and cut hospital admissions
Public Health Scotland (PHS) has today published the final report on the independent evaluation of the impact of minimum unit pricing (MUP) for alcohol in Scotland. Evidence shows that MUP has had a positive impact on health outcomes, including addressing alcohol-related health inequalities.
It has reduced deaths directly caused by alcohol consumption by an estimated 13.4% and hospital admissions by 4.1%, with the largest reductions seen in men and those living in the 40% most deprived areas.
MUP led to a 3% reduction in alcohol consumption at a population level, as measured by retail sales. The reduction was particularly driven by sales of cider and spirits through the off-trade (supermarkets and shops) products that increased the most in price. Evidence from a range of data sources shows that the greatest reductions were amongst those households purchasing the most alcohol, with little impact on households purchasing at lower levels.
For those people with alcohol dependence there was limited evidence of any reduction in consumption and there is some evidence of consequences for those with established alcohol dependence on low incomes, that led them to prioritise spending on alcohol over food. At a population level there is no clear evidence of substantial negative impacts on social harms such as alcohol-related crime or illicit drug use.
The evaluation report shows that while the impact on alcoholic drink producers and retailers varied depending on the mix of products made or sold, there is no clear evidence of substantial negative impacts on the alcoholic drinks industry in Scotland as a whole.
Clare Beeston, Lead for the evaluation of MUP, Public Health Scotland said: “We have seen reductions in deaths and hospital admissions directly caused by sustained, high levels of alcohol consumption, and this is further evidence that those drinking at harmful and hazardous levels have reduced their consumption.
“MUP alone is not enough to address the specific and complex needs of those with alcohol dependence who will often prioritise alcohol over other needs, and it is important to continue to provide services and any wider support that addresses the root cause of their dependence.
“Those living in the most socioeconomically deprived areas in Scotland experience alcohol-specific death rates at least five times greater than those living in the least deprived areas. Alcohol-related disorders are a leading contributor to health inequalities in Scotland.
“Overall, the evidence shows that MUP has had a positive impact on improving health outcomes, including alcohol-related health inequalities, and can play a part in addressing the preventable harm that affect far too many people, families and communities.”
Dr Nick Phin, Director of Public Health Science, Public Health Scotland said: “Public Health Scotland is committed to evidence-informed policy, and we are confident in the validity of the robust research published today. The evidence in our report is consistent with earlier research on minimum pricing elsewhere.
“Public Health Scotland is confident that MUP is an effective mechanism to reduce alcohol-related harm in Scotland and we support the continuation of MUP beyond April 2024.”
Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Elena Whitham has welcomed research from Public Health Scotland which concludes that Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) has saved lives, reduced hospital admissions and had a ‘positive impact’ on health.
In their final report of a series, researchers said that ‘robust, independent evaluation’ and the best-available, wide-ranging evidence drawing on 40 independent research publications, showed that MUP has been effective in its main goal of reducing alcohol harm with the reduction in deaths and hospital admissions specific to the timing of MUP implementation.
This follows a study published in March by PHS and University of Glasgow showing MUP reduced alcohol consumption by 3%, deaths directly caused by alcohol consumption by 13.4% and hospital admissions by 4.1%. compared to what would have happened if MUP had not been in place.
Ms Whitham said: ““We’re determined to do all we can to reduce alcohol-related harm and, as this research demonstrates, our world-leading policy is saving lives, reducing alcohol harms and hospital admissions. Just one life lost to alcohol-related harm is one too many and my sympathy goes to all those who have lost a loved one.
“MUP has also contributed to reducing health inequalities. The study found the largest reductions in deaths and hospital admissions wholly attributable to alcohol consumption were seen in men and those living in the 40% most deprived areas.
“We know that additional support is needed for some groups, including those dealing with alcohol dependence and issues such as homelessness. That’s why, alongside MUP, last year £106.8 million was made available to Alcohol and Drugs Partnerships to support local and national initiatives. We will now carefully consider this research as part of ongoing work on reviewing MUP.”
Report estimates the policy has saved hundreds of lives
Today, Public Health Scotland (PHS) and The Lancet publish new evidence showing the impact of alcohol minimum unit pricing (MUP) on deaths and hospital admissions attributable to alcohol consumption. The report has been welcomed by the Scottish Government.
Carried out in collaboration with the University of Glasgow, the study evaluated the impact of MUP on alcohol health harms, over the first two-and-half years of the policy.
The study estimated a 13.4% reduction in deaths, and a 4.1% reduction in hospital admissions, wholly attributable to alcohol consumption following the implementation of MUP. The study also found that MUP reduced deaths and hospital admissions where alcohol consumption may be one of a range of causative factors. The findings cover the period from MUP implementation up to the end of 2020.
This latest report builds on previous work that estimated alcohol sales reduced by 3% in the three years following the implementation of MUP.
Dr Grant Wyper, Public Health Intelligence Adviser at PHS, said:“Our study estimates that, following more than two and a half years of implementation, around 150 deaths, and around 400 hospital admissions, wholly attributable to alcohol consumption, were averted each year due to MUP.
“The greatest reductions were seen for chronic alcohol health harms, in particular alcoholic liver disease, which were slightly offset with less certain evidence of increases in acute alcohol health harms.
“The findings highlight that the largest reductions were found for males, and for those living in the 40% most deprived areas, groups which are known to experience disproportionally high levels of alcohol health harms in Scotland.
“We know that those living in the most socioeconomically deprived areas in Scotland experience alcohol-specific death rates more than five times higher compared to those living in the least deprived areas.
“The results published today are therefore very encouraging in addressing this inequality, and the overall scale of preventable harm which affects far too many people.”
Prof Daniel Mackay, Professor of Public Health Informatics at the School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, said:“The methods we’ve used in this study allow us to be confident that the reduction in alcohol health harms we’ve shown is due to the introduction of MUP, rather than some other factor.
“This was important as the COVID-19 pandemic occurred towards the end of our study period and may have had an impact on alcohol-related health harms that was unrelated to MUP. Our main findings for the whole study period were consistent with findings from an additional analysis that focused on the pre-pandemic period only.
“In fact, we tested our main finding across a range of different scenarios and found the results to be largely consistent with our main finding, strengthening our conclusion that MUP has been effective at reducing the harm to health caused by alcohol.”
Prof Jim Lewsey, Professor of Medical Statistics also at the School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, added:“Our approach compared what happened to alcohol health harms in Scotland with its neighbouring country, England, where MUP was not introduced.
“The methods we have used and the consistency of our findings with what was anticipated before MUP was introduced, allow us to be confident that the reduction in alcohol health harms is because of the MUP intervention.”
The MUP Evaluation Portfolio comprises of a number of research studies that are being undertaken to assess the impact of MUP across a range of outcomes, all of which have now been concluded. A report bringing together all the evaluation findings will be published in June 2023.
Research which estimates 156 deaths were averted each year following the implementation of Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) has been welcomed by the Public Health Minister Maree Todd.
A Public Health Scotland and University of Glasgow study indicates a 13.4% reduction in deaths, and a 4.1% reduction in hospital admissions wholly attributable to alcohol consumption in the first two and a half years after MUP was introduced in May 2018. The report also concludes the policy had reduced deaths and hospital admissions where alcohol consumption may have been a factor.
Researchers say they are confident there is a link between the introduction of MUP and the reduction in alcohol health harms. They also noted there had been significant reductions in deaths in areas of deprivation, suggesting MUP has helped reduce inequalities in alcohol-attributable deaths in Scotland.
Ms Todd said: “I am very pleased with these findings which point to more than 150 lives a year being saved and 411 fewer hospital admissions, further underlining the value of our world-leading Minimum Unit Pricing policy which has helped reduce alcohol sales to their lowest on record.
“We’re determined to do all we can to reduce alcohol-related harm which is one of the most pressing public health challenges that we face in Scotland.
“Minimum Unit Pricing continues to achieve its aim – cutting overall sales, particularly cheap high-strength alcohol, which is often drunk by people drinking at harmful levels.
“It’s also encouraging to see that the research has highlighted that the policy is having an effect in Scotland’s most deprived areas – which experience higher death rates and levels of harms from problem alcohol.”
The study – published by PHS and the Lancet – focused on the first two-and-half years of the policy. It follows a previous report which estimated that alcohol sales had dropped by 3% after MUP. A report bringing together all the evaluation findings on MUP will be published in June this year.
