The national awareness day aims to encourage conversations about alcohol and highlight the support networks in place. The 2026 theme, ‘Support', underscores the significance of connection, understanding, and access to help for individuals, families, and communities. In 2025, Scotland registered 1,152 alcohol-specific deaths, a 3% decrease from 2024, marking the lowest number since 2020. However, the rate of male alcohol-specific deaths remains more than double that of females, despite a recent decrease in male fatalities.
The average age of individuals dying from alcohol-specific causes has been increasing over the past decade, with the highest rates observed in the 45-64 and 65-74 age groups. Alcohol-related harm continues to impact people across Scotland, including the Western Isles, placing considerable pressure on individuals, families, and public services. The Outer Hebrides Alcohol and Drug Partnership (OHADP) stresses that behind every statistic is a person or family needing support.
Alcohol Action Day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness of the available help, reminding people that support is accessible at every stage of their recovery journey. Various local services and community organisations in the Western Isles offer advice, practical assistance, and recovery support. The message is clear: help is available, and no one has to face these challenges alone.
“"As we mark the first Alcohol Action Day, we recognise the importance of support in helping individuals, families and communities thrive. Whatever your circumstances, there are people and services across the Western Isles ready to listen, offer guidance and help you take the next step."
“"OHADP is committed to working with local services, communities and partner organisations to reduce alcohol-related harm and improve wellbeing across the Western Isles. Together, we can help ensure that everyone has access to the support they need, when they need it."
Individuals concerned about their own drinking or that of someone they know are encouraged to reach out. Seeking help is presented as a sign of strength, with early support making a significant difference. Services are available to help people make positive changes at their own pace.
Local support can be found at www.outerhebadp.com. National support is available through Drinkline Scotland on 0800 7314 314, NHS Inform at www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/alcohol/, Alcoholics Anonymous at www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk/, and the Scottish Families Affected by Alcohol & Drugs Helpline on 08080 101011 or at www.sfad.org.uk/.
