Alcohol Awareness Week highlights support available across Oxfordshire
Residents are being encouraged to take a few minutes this Alcohol Awareness Week to check in with their drinking and find out what help is available, if needed.
As part of Alcohol Awareness Week, which runs from 6 to 12 July, Oxfordshire County Council is highlighting local drug and alcohol services and encouraging residents to think about the role alcohol plays in their lives.
This year’s theme, “alcohol and me”, focuses on helping people reflect without judgement on their own habits, the wider pressures that can influence drinking, and small changes that can support better health and wellbeing.
The council is also highlighting the importance of early help for young people affected by drug and alcohol use, alongside services available for adults and families across Oxfordshire.
Councillor Kate Gregory, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: “Alcohol Awareness Week is a helpful opportunity for people to pause and think about what feels right for them, their health and their wellbeing. This is not about telling people what to do. It is about making sure residents have clear information, practical tools and access to support if they want it.
“Small changes can make a real difference for some people, whether that is having more alcohol-free days, drinking a little less, or speaking to someone if alcohol is affecting day-to-day life. We want people in Oxfordshire to know that confidential, non-judgemental help is available.”
Adults aged 18 and over can access free, confidential support through Turning Point’s Oxfordshire Roads to Recovery, Oxfordshire’s local drug and alcohol service.
It offers advice, one-to-one recovery support, access to detoxification and residential rehabilitation where appropriate, drop-in sessions, group activities and help with wider issues such as employment and housing. Residents can call 01865 261690 or find their nearest hub in Oxford, Banbury, Didcot or Witney.
Children and young people can get free, confidential advice and support through Cranstoun Here4YOUth. The service supports young people in Oxfordshire aged eight to 25 affected by their own drug or alcohol use, or up to 18 if they’re affected by someone else’s.
They also support families where a parent or carer is using substances. Support can be provided online, by phone or in person at school, college, home or another place where the young person feels comfortable. People can call 01865 590825 or email here4youthox@cranstoun.org.uk.
Residents who want to better understand their drinking can also use DrinkCoach, a free and confidential online tool that provides a personalised score and advice in around two minutes. Eligible residents can also book free online coaching sessions with an alcohol specialist.
Alcohol Awareness Week is led annually by the charity Alcohol Change UK. Find out more by visiting the charity’s website.
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