London Drink Debate - Londoners we want your views!

Hi,

The London Drink Debate is calling for Londoners to have their say on the impact of alcohol in their community. Over 79% of Londoners surveyed so far don't feel they have a say on tackling the problems of alcohol in the city.

Please take 5 minutes out of your day to complete our online survey at www.londondrinkdebate.co.uk.

Your feedback will be presented to key decision-makers to decide on how London tackles the impact of alcohol across the city in the future.

Thank you for your support,
London Drink Debate Team

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It's an interesting topic.

I've personally always felt that alcohol abuse isn't quite so obvious in and around London during the evenings. I grew up in the binge drinking generation and I've been out in many towns and cities across the UK. The level of alcohol abuse in some cities and the problems connected to it are very clear to see. However, since moving to London in 2002 and going out in the city I noticed a huge difference. I noticed a clear difference in the levels of aggression on the streets and alcohol fuelled destruction. I'd always put this down to the fact that the city is so well spread out that there aren't the usual 'hot spots' where trouble kicks off, although I also think a big part of it is down to demographics.

It's only one part of the debate on alcohol but thought I'd mention it! ;)

I'll be interested to hear the results of this.


AIL Staff

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I think a lot of people are distracted by 'binge drinking' alcohol abuse. I'm more concerned about what goes on behind closed doors.

Lots of people have a 'problem' with alochol without realising it.

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It's a tricky subject. My general rule is if you physically can't go without having a drink you've got a problem. There are alcoholics in my family and for me the distinction between a drink problem and enjoying a drink is quite clear.


What I don't like is all these governemnt ads telling you how much you should be drinking. It comes across as (and this is a new phrase coined on AIL, you saw it here first!) nanny-statism. The current set of adverts are over the top and are clearly aimed at those who like to have a glass of wine in the evening. It's scare mongering and it's going to make people think they've got a problem when they probably haven't.

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In short, generally, I think many people who do enjoy a glass of wine in the evening, every evening, do have somewhat of a problem. It's many of these people who SAY they can
go without, but they don't want to.

If someone can't 'unwind' or have a good time without the need for alcohol (or drugs) there most certainly is a problem. The extent just varies.

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