An estimated 4,000 people in Doncaster have alcohol dependency issues

The Alcohol Early Intervention and Outreach Team is targeting those who may be consuming more than usual, possibly because of the pandemic impacting on their normal drinking patterns.

“It’s about education, not formal clinical treatment, giving people information so they can make healthy lifestyle choices,” said senior case manager, Frankee White, from Aspire Drug & Alcohol Services a partnership between The Alcohol and Drug Service (ADS) and Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH).

“We offer from six to 12 guided sessions, currently delivered confidentially over the internet or by telephone, though we hope to provide some face-to-face sessions within the community later in the year. These sessions will help people understand how increased drinking affects the mind and body and ultimately lifestyle choices and abilities.

“We are focussing on those who perhaps wouldn’t normally use our services, who probably are quite high functioning, such as holding down a job, having a home and supportive family and friends, but are finding their alcohol consumption is increasing. We want to help them manage their drinking within safe tolerances, so they don’t become dependent on alcohol.

“Some people have long term health problems and don’t understand how alcohol can impact and amplify their condition or create associated health risks. Drinking more later in life can also cause problems, which we explain in our education sessions.”

Frankee is supported by case manager Alana Jury on the ‘pilot’ scheme, which is being match funded by Doncaster Council’s Public Health Department for an initial 12 months to assess its impact.

Current Government guidelines advise men and women not to regularly drink more than 14 alcohol units a week, though research suggest that many people do not always know how many units are in, say, a glass of wine or pint of beer.

Public Health England estimates that Doncaster has over 4,000 people with problematic or dependent on alcohol issues that are affecting their health.

To talk to a member of the team ring 01302 730956 and quote ‘early’, or email [email protected]

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