Drinkaware response to alcohol-specific death statistics for Scotland 2025

“We are encouraged to see alcohol-specific deaths in Scotland continue to fall in 2025, and for alcohol-specific mortality to have fallen significantly compared to 2022. However, the figures remain high and are a reminder that there is still more to do. Behind these statistics are people, families and communities affected by alcohol harm, with alcohol-specific deaths representing only part of the wider impact.

“We know that reducing alcohol harm requires a long-term, collective effort. As Scotland delivers its Alcohol and Drugs Strategy for 2026-2035, it is important that prevention remains at the heart of the response, alongside support for those most at risk of harm.

“This is particularly important given our 2026 Monitor data showed that 20% of drinkers in Scotland drank above the CMOs' low-risk guidelines of 14 units a week in the week before the survey, equivalent to more than three-quarters of a million people.

“Drinkaware is committed to playing our part by working with partners across Scotland, to support people where decisions about alcohol are made, providing evidence-based information, advice and tools that help people make informed choices about their drinking and access support before serious harm occurs.

“Anyone concerned about their own drinking, or that of someone close to them, can find free, confidential and non-judgemental advice through Drinkaware's website, including our service finder, which helps people identify local alcohol support services.”