Alcohol Help

Have fun but stay safe is the message for New Years Eve revellers in advice issued today by The Home Office Minister responsible for alcohol harm reduction, Vernon Coaker.

Around half of all violent crime is alcohol related and one in three reported rapes happen when the victim has been drinking. Eight out of ten pedestrians killed on Friday and Saturday nights have been drinking.

Vernon Coaker said:

"For many of us New Year’s Eve will be the biggest party of the year and having a few drinks is all part of the fun. But it is worth remembering that when things go wrong and people get hurt reckless alcohol consumption has often played a part.

"The Government’s Know Your Limits campaign has been offering helpful, non-preachy guidance on safer drinking since November 2006.

"I want to remind everyone who is planning a night out tonight about these practical tips for safer drinking. Taking a few simple precautions can ensure that a fun night out stays that way and really goes with a swing."

Know Your Limits was the first national campaign to target 18-24 year-old binge drinkers. Jointly funded by the Home Office and the Department for Health, it highlights the negative consequences of drinking too much alcohol.

The campaign stresses the need for young drinkers to know the transformation point that occurs between being a good drunk and a bad drunk and to understand the consequences of excessive drinking.

Home Office