Four million over 50s are binge drinking once a week during lockdown research finds
More than four million people aged over 50 are binge drinking once a week new research from drug, alcohol and mental health charity We Are With You has found.
Over the last nine months We Are With You – which has a service in Lambeth – has seen the impact of lockdown restrictions across the UK.
The necessary restrictions to control the spread of the coronavirus mean that many people in Lambeth face the prospect of spending Christmas away from their family and friends, which could trigger poor mental health.
The charity has reported that the number of people accessing We Are With You’s online web chat service increased by 91% in October/November when compared to the same time last year.
Tai Duong, who manages We Are With You in Lambeth, said: “2020 has been a really tough year for everyone.
“We have seen first-hand the toll that increased isolation and the stress of living through a pandemic has taken on some people within our community.
“Christmas is normally a time for people to come together; to feel connected with friends and family. Many people won’t be able to experience this properly this year.
“We know that becoming isolated can often lead people to drink more or use drugs, so it’s really important people are aware that support is available during the festive period.”
We Are With You in Lambeth work within the community to help manage, reduce or stop drug (including prescription drugs) and/or alcohol use. The charity will remain open over the festive period to continue to provide support.
We Are With You Lambeth Christmas opening hours:
|
Date |
Opening times |
|
23/12/2020 |
9:00 – 17:00 |
|
24/12/2020 |
9:00 – 17:00 |
|
25/12/2020 |
Closed |
|
28/12/2020 |
Closed |
|
29/12/2020 |
9:00 – 14:00 |
|
30/12/2020 |
9:00 – 17:00 |
|
31/12/2020 |
9:00 – 16:00 |
|
01/01/2021 |
Closed |
|
04/01/2021 |
9:00 – 17:00 |
If you are concerned about your own, or someone else’s, alcohol or drug use this Christmas, you can reach We Are With You in Lambeth on 0203 228 1500 or you can talk anonymously to a trained advisor via the online web chat service via: www.wearewithyou.org.uk.
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