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Drinkaware’s response to proposed Mandatory Code on alcohol sales

14 May 2009

Reacting to the proposed new Mandatory Code on alcohol sales, announced today by Home Secretary Jacqui Smith, Chris Sorek, CEO of The Drinkaware Trust, says:

“Alcohol is a part of many people’s lives so this code will affect millions of people in England and Wales. Tackling alcohol misuse will require a range of measures and education must play a central role – it’s imperative people know what they’re drinking and how it will affect them.

“Timely and trusted information can help people reduce the negative impact of alcohol misuse - either through cutting back, having alcohol free days or adapting their lifestyles. Knowing about unit guidelines* and how alcohol can affect overall health and well-being can help people make informed decisions about drinking.

“As an independent charity, Drinkaware is here to make sure people have the facts they need to enjoy alcohol without risking their health or emotional wellbeing in either the short or long term. People can find out how much they’re drinking by using the unit calculator at www.drinkaware.co.uk“

The Mandatory Code for the sale of alcohol praises Drinkaware as a reliable source of information for consumers. The charity’s partnership with the Wine and Spirit Trade Association is also commended for ensuring responsible drinking messages are available in point of sale environments.

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To interview a Drinkaware spokesperson, please contact:

Emily May

Communications Officer

Email: emay@drinkawaretrust.org.uk

tel: 020 7307 7459

mob: 07827 971 738

Notes to editors:

*Drinkaware advises men to stick to the recommended guidelines of 3-4 units of alcohol per day (a pint of lager) and women to stick to 2-3 units per day (a 175ml glass of wine).

Drinkaware (www.drinkaware.co.uk) provides consumers with information to make informed decisions about the effects of alcohol on their lives and lifestyles. Our public education programmes, grants, expert information, and resources help create awareness and affect positive change. An independent charity established in 2007, Drinkaware works with the medical profession, the alcohol industry, government and independent members to achieve its goals

Page last updated by: Root User, 19 Apr 2010.