Public health practitioners for Liverpool City Council are encouraging locals to take part in Dry January, or a ‘drier January’ to reduce their alcohol intake.
Drinking too much can have damaging effects to individuals’ health and is the leading risk factor for death, ill health, and disability among 15–49-year-olds in the city, according to the public health team.
The team said having a month off alcohol provides an opportunity to feel healthier, improve sleep, save money, and have a better mood overall.
Samantha O’Loughlin, a public health practitioner in the addictions team at Liverpool City Council, said: “January is a time when many people start thinking about changing their behaviours. They often feel a bit more motivated to make the changes they’ve been putting off.
“So many people will start to go to the gym, think about stopping smoking, and also reducing alcohol consumption after a festive period where our alcohol consumption can increase.”
O’Loughlin emphasised that the Dry January campaign provides visibility around alcohol-free living and encourages people to give it a try.
She noted that having a focused, month‑long campaign shows people that change is achievable, support is available and is a positive step for those wanting to reduce their alcohol use.
The council’s State of Health in the City: Liverpool 2040 report warns that without action up to 38,000 more residents could develop long-term health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic kidney disease – many made worse by alcohol misuse.
Try Dry by Alcohol Change UK is an app that provides motivational tips, encouragement and tracking progress for those wanting to take part in Dry January.
There is also another app to support people who want to reduce their alcohol consumption all year round called Drink Free Days.
But O’Loughlin said it was hard to measure the full success of the campaign as a lot of people do it on their own.
She said: “We’re running a social media campaign, which will allow us to track engagement and see how many people click through to find out more about Dry January.
“While we won’t be able to measure exactly how many people reduce or stop their alcohol consumption as a direct result of the campaign, we hope it inspires many across the city to give it a try.
“We’re also currently developing a new alcohol strategy for the city, and there is an active public consultation. We encourage residents to take part and share their views on alcohol in Liverpool.”
O’Loughlin added: “We do have a fabulous local service called River, and they can provide support to anyone who has concerns over their or others alcohol consumption.”
If you’re worried about your drinking or someone else’s, specialist help is available from Change Grow Live or call 0151 706 7888.
