Campaign launches as figures show men in Bedfordshire are at higher risk of alcohol related illness

A new public health campaign to encourage men to develop a healthier approach to alcohol has been launched.

Time Gentlemen Please aims to highlight the wealth of local and national support available to help people to cut down their alcohol intake.

It comes as statistics from the Health Survey for England reveal that, overall, men face twice the risk of alcohol-related deaths compared to women.

A breakdown reveals nearly half of adults aged 16 and above said they drink alcohol at least once a week. Among them, 55 per cent were men while eight per cent of men admitted to drinking almost daily.

And, across Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes, men are at higher risk of sustaining an alcohol related injury. This includes an alcohol related cardiovascular or liver disease, or suffering with mental and behavioural disorders due to alcohol.

Following on from Alcohol Awareness Week last month, Time Gentlemen Please aims to help people concerned about excessive drinking or seeking ways to go easy on alcohol without judgement.

Cllr Rebecca Hares, portfolio-holder for Health and Community Liaison at Central Bedfordshire Council said: “The launch of Time Gentleman Please is an opportunity for people to think about their relationship with alcohol and the benefits even small changes can have including better sleep, losing weight, as well as saving money.

“Whether you are looking at how to cut back a little or are concerned you or someone you know are drinking too much, advice and support is available.”