Cost of tackling alcoholism in Lothian trebles to £3 million

Published on Wednesday 5 August 2009 11:27

FUNDING to help overcome alcohol misuse in the Lothians has trebled in the past three years, it has been revealed.

More than 3 million a year is now spent on services helping people tackle drink addiction, with measures including brief interventions by GPs and awareness events at primary schools.

The Lothians has the second biggest spend in the country after Glasgow.

Dr Ian McKee MSP said: "This funding is absolutely crucial for Lothian Health Board. Without this substantial increase it wouldn't be possible to deal with alcohol head on and finance the wide range of local and national services we currently provide.

"These funds finance projects that affect such a wide range of people and services, and have become indispensable for our communities. There is no doubt this government has got its priorities right in addressing the deteriorating health of our nation.

"The investment we make today on alcohol services will have a huge impact on the future of our communities and the overall health of our nation."