Industry gives Drinkaware £15m boost

Pub companies and brewers are among the companies that have pledged £15m to fund alcohol education charity Drinkaware.

A total of 50 companies in the alcohol industry will stump up a combined £5m each year for the next three years.

The money will enable Drinkaware to carry on with its research and campaigns in the field of alcohol education.

Derek Lewis, Drinkaware chairman, said: "The funding from retailers, trade bodies and producers will make it possible for Drinkaware to continue talking to under-18s, young adults and adults about the dangers of alcohol misuse.

"Changing the UK drinking culture won't happen overnight and we've all got a part to play.

"It's imperative that the drinks industry, medical and public health community, charities and central and local government all work together to protect consumers from alcohol related harm."

Health secretary Andy Burnham gave his backing to the charity.

He said: "Drinkaware have made good progress so far, and it's encouraging that they can continue with more stable funding."

And Jeremy Beadles, Wine and Spirit Trade Association (WSTA) chief executive, 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."

For more information visit www.drinkaware.co.uk ​