Alcohol
The burden to the NHS in England caused by heavy drinking and alcohol dependence is estimated to be £2.7bn (DH 2006-7). Just 2% is accounted for by specialist treatment services (NAO 2008). Total costs to society are estimated at £20bn (PMSU 2003).
The NHF is engaging in policy work on the public health impacts of price and affordability, availability, and the marketing and promotion of alcohol.
Price and affordability: The cheaper alcohol is, the more people drink. Tackling the cheapest alcohol is an effective public health policy because people who drink the most tend to drink the cheapest possible. Policy options include minimum pricing, increasing duty and varying VAT.
Availability: The availability of alcohol from a range of outlets through long retailing hours influences the ease with which people are able to access alcohol, but also may signal the social acceptability of drinking, particularly by the young. Policy options include local licensing laws and control of underage, illicit sales.
Marketing and promotions: The current regulations do not adequately protect young people from exposure to marketing messages and promotions in new media or in traditional media (TV) and do not address alcohol brand sponsorship of sports, concerts or events. A range of options are available, restricting the content and volume of alcohol marketing messages.
