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New research from Alcohol Change UK finds 17.5 million are planning a month off alcohol in January 2026
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People across the UK are more motivated than ever to kick off the year on a healthier, happier note, as new research from Alcohol Change UK finds 17.5 million are planning a month off alcohol in January 2026.
When asked about goals for the year ahead, the top priorities for people across the UK in 2026 are their fitness and physical health (32%), strengthening their finances (31%), and improving their mental health and wellbeing (26%).
Read more on our blog ([link removed])
** Latest news and updates
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We were in UK Parliament yesterday!
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The Dry January^® challenge headed to Westminster for our annual Parliamentary Reception yesterday, hosted by Liz Twist MP. The event helped MPs learn more about the Dry January^® challenge, the positive changes people are making through the Try Dry^® app, and how they can support constituents who are building a better relationship with alcohol.
It was also a chance to highlight to MPs how their local pubs can play a part during the Dry January^® challenge by offering great alcohol-free options - helping their constituents to keep supporting their local during January.
At the event, MPs:
* Sampled a range of delicious alcohol-free drinks from British producers
* Took part in the Dry January^® challenge and entered our prize draw
* Heard directly from our Community Champions ([link removed]) and Ambassadors ([link removed]) about their lived experiences.
This year, we were also excited to welcome the Public Health Minister, Ashley Dalton, who took part in an in-conversation session hosted by journalist, podcast presenter and Alcohol Change UK Ambassador, Jay Motty.
Catch up on the event via our socials ([link removed])
The Blue Light Approach: new updated guidance
More than a decade after the original Blue Light guidance was first published, we’re delighted to share an updated version for those working with people with entrenched alcohol dependency and complex needs.
This new guidance is a practical, system-focused guide for practitioners and managers across health, social care, housing, policing, probation and community safety, and is grounded in evidence and frontline experience.
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It supports shared ownership, joint planning and consistent approaches that reduce risk and improve outcomes, focusing on safety and dignity, and the belief that progress is always possible.
It is intended to support practitioners and leaders who want to work differently, who recognise the cost of repeated crisis responses, and who are committed to reducing harm, improving safety and strengthening system responses over time.
Read more on our blog ([link removed])
Alcohol deaths in England fall for first time since the pandemic
Alcohol-specific and alcohol-related deaths in England fell in 2024 for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to data published by the Department of Health and Social Care, with 7,673 people dying from alcohol-specific causes (a 7.3% drop) and the rate declining to 13.8 per 100,000. However, the figures remain well above pre-COVID levels.
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** Get involved
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Join our alcohol, drugs and young people webinar
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Want to understand the real impact of substance use on young people?
This webinar offers a clear introduction to the major issues surrounding drugs and adolescents, including the latest trends and the unique effects substances have on developing brains. You’ll also learn how to recognise commonly used drugs, understand their risks, and spot early warning signs. By the end, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to intervene and support young people effectively.
The webinar will be held online on 19 February from 10am to 12pm.
Sign up today ([link removed])
Interested in joining us as our next Community Champion?
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Volunteer as an Alcohol Change UK Community Champion and help us to raise awareness, prevent the harms caused by alcohol, and campaign for change. Whether you can help out in your local community or assist the cause online, there is a place for you to join the community.
Become a Community Champion ([link removed])
Take the leap and help end alcohol harm
mailto:
[email protected]?subject=Rise%20and%20Raise%20skydive&body=
A new year brings new chances to do something extraordinary. This July, for Alcohol Awareness Week (6-12 July 2026), take on the Rise and Raise skydive and make 2026 the year you rise higher for a cause that matters.
Sign up before the end of February and take advantage of our half-priced registration fee of just £35, instead of £70.
You’ll have a fundraising target of £395, but you won’t be doing it alone! We’ll give you simple ideas, ready-made resources, and one-to-one support to help you feel confident from the very start.
Ready to Rise and Raise? Email our fundraising team (mailto:
[email protected]?subject=Rise%20and%20Raise%20skydive&body=)
** Latest blogs
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New Road Safety Strategy: A gear change
The Department for Transport has published a new Road Safety Strategy, listing a number of reforms and plans, including a consultation on lowering the legal drink driving limit in England and Wales.
** Canan’s story: “The Dry January® challenge is a simple pause and a mindful practice”
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For Canan, having an alcohol-free month in January helped her discover so much about herself and her reasons for drinking, and the Try Dry^® app has since helped her in ‘mindful drinking’.
Read our response ([link removed])
Read Canan’s story ([link removed])
As a charity, we rely on donations from our amazing supporters to help us continue our vital work to end alcohol harm.
Together we are changing the narrative, so no-one is made to feel ashamed about their drinking and can get the help and support they deserve.
Be a part of our mission. Donate today. Change lives. ([link removed])
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Copyright © 2026 Alcohol Change UK, all rights reserved.
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Alcohol Change UK
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