Alcohol charity Drinkaware gets £15m funding

Alcohol education charity Drinkaware has secured more than £5m funding each year for the next three years, from producers, pub operators, supermarkets and off licences.

The organisation, which provides "independent, medically evidenced alcohol aducation for consumers" now plans to step up its activities.

It will build campaigns aimed at young adults and under 18s, as well as increasing its digital presence and developing "more compelling" education and information programmes.

The money raised was provided by 50 companies from within the alcohol sector.

Derek Lewis, Drinkaware chairman said: "Changing the UK drinking culture won't happen overnight and we've all got a part to play."

He said "alcohol misuse costs the NHS around £2.7bn each year," adding that "education plays a key role in changing behaviour".

"Drinkaware, as a provider of independent medically-validated and accessible information, is in a great position to help effect this change."

Andy Burnham, the Secretary of State for Health, praised Drinkaware's "good progress" on tackling alcohol misuse, and said it was "encouraging that they can continue with more stable funding".

Wine & Sprit Trade Association (WSTA) chief executive Jeremy Beadles said: "This funding underlines the commitment of the drinks industry as a whole, producers and retailers, to encourage people in the UK to drink responsibly.

"The WSTA has been working with members to secure this financial commitment to Drinkaware and we welcome support for its work to change cultural attitudes to alcohol in this country."

Brigid Simmonds, British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive said: "This demonstrates our industry's commitment to help people make more informed decisions about their drinking choices and behaviour. The BBPA has worked consistently to secure our members contribution and is proud of the fact the nation's brewing and pub companies will be providing over 40% of the funding."