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** 19 December 2024
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** UK
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** Public health experts urge action as alcohol-related deaths surge (#1)
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** Labour proposes streamlined NHS targets and greater autonomy for hospitals (#2)
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** Investigation reveals child gambling on Roblox-linked casinos (#3)
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** UK
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** Public health experts urge action as alcohol-related deaths surge

Alcohol-related deaths in England have risen dramatically, with public health advocates warning of a worsening crisis. The Alcohol Health Alliance (AHA), comprising medical experts, charities, and treatment providers, has called on the government to adopt minimum unit pricing (MUP) to curb alcohol consumption. The alliance highlights that deaths attributed solely to alcohol have soared by 42% since 2019, with 8,274 fatalities recorded in 2023.

While Scotland's MUP policy has shown success in reducing alcohol-related harm, England has yet to implement similar measures. The AHA argues that inaction is fuelling an escalating burden on health services, families, and the economy. They emphasise that rising affordability of alcohol and increased consumption during lockdowns have exacerbated the issue. The group urges immediate intervention to address the crisis and prevent further avoidable deaths.

Source: The Times, 19 December 2024

See also: Alcohol Health Alliance - Experts urge health secretary to “stop the needless suffering” as alcohol deaths spiral ([link removed])

Editorial note: Media stories covering other harmful consumer products, such as alcohol, unhealthy food and drink and gambling, are being included in ASH Daily News because policy change in these areas is indicative of the Government’s position on prevention and their attitudes to harm-causing industries. ASH has signed the letter because reducing alcohol consumption will have co-benefits in reducing the harms caused by tobacco.
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** Labour proposes streamlined NHS targets and greater autonomy for hospitals

Labour is considering a shift in NHS strategy by reducing the number of performance targets and providing more autonomy to top-performing hospitals. Health Secretary Wes Streeting discussed the proposal during a parliamentary session, highlighting the need to reassess which targets drive meaningful outcomes. The approach aligns with Labour’s broader vision for healthcare, including a 10-year plan set for release in May.

Streeting emphasised that addressing waiting lists and improving services, such as GP access and ambulance response times, are key priorities. While high-performing hospitals may gain more independence, poorly performing facilities will remain under stricter oversight. Additionally, he raised concerns over how NHS funds are spent, advocating for better financial management and reduced bureaucracy. Mental health spending will continue to receive guaranteed annual increases, amidst mounting winter pressures on the health service.

Source: The Telegraph, 18 December 2024
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** Investigation reveals child gambling on Roblox-linked casinos

An investigation has uncovered a network of unlicensed online casinos exploiting the online gaming platform Roblox by allowing children to gamble using its in-game currency, Robux. The sites, unauthorised by Roblox, target young users with games like slots and blackjack, permitting withdrawals as cryptocurrency convertible to real cash.

These platforms, frequented by millions monthly, have facilitated substantial gambling losses, with some children wagering tens of thousands of pounds. The UK Gambling Commission has intervened, blocking several sites, while Roblox has taken legal action and increased measures to disrupt such activities. Despite closures, some casinos re-emerged under new web addresses, highlighting enforcement challenges.

Critics argue the lack of safeguards on these sites poses serious risks, fostering addiction and financial harm. Parents have filed lawsuits against Roblox, accusing it of negligence in failing to prevent access to these platforms. Regulators are pursuing the casino operators, urging stricter accountability to protect vulnerable users.

Source: Sky News, 17 December 2024

Editorial note: Media stories covering other harmful consumer products, such as alcohol, unhealthy food and drink and gambling, are being included in ASH Daily News because policy change in these areas is indicative of the Government’s position on prevention and their attitudes to harm-causing industries.
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ASH Daily News is a digest of published news on smoking-related topics. ASH is not responsible for the content of external websites. ASH does not necessarily endorse the material contained in this bulletin.

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