Does Somerset Need a Dry January?

Somerset is home to an estimated 5,202 individuals who are alcohol-dependent, with approximately 80% (around 4,000) having unmet treatment needs. While we should approach this figure with caution, national trends suggest it may actually be an underestimate. Alarmingly, alcohol-related hospital admissions in Somerset are higher than the national average, particularly among women under 40.

One of my key motivations for running for election to Somerset Council was to understand health issues, including mental health, within our communities. As Chair of the Adults and Health Scrutiny Committee, I have the opportunity to explore various issues that affect us by examining essential Council services impacting our daily lives. We delve into evidence, analyse data, engage with experts, and, importantly, ask critical questions.

Just before Christmas, I attended a meeting focused on public health concerning alcohol and drug dependency in Somerset. During this meeting, I raised the concept of Dry January, knowing there is backlash against it, yet eager to understand the campaign’s motivations, results, and benefits. Concerns expressed included the impact on trade for pubs and restaurants and whether a brief pause in alcohol consumption genuinely makes a difference.

On January 1st, I chose to participate in Dry January to support Somerset Council’s public health campaign. The first few days of abstaining were particularly challenging, especially with many family and friends celebrating birthdays this month. We often feel the urge to uplift our spirits after the Christmas holiday season by making an effort to socialise.

I persevered and have since moved past my doubts about completing this challenge, beginning to feel the mental health benefits. One revelation has been the impressive range of high-quality non-alcoholic drinks now available that taste just as good as their alcoholic counterparts. Has Dry January contributed to this trend, or is it a response to younger generations moving away from alcohol? Alternatively, could the health-conscious choices of baby boomers indicate a growing market for alcohol alternatives?

Among my favorite non-alcoholic options are Clear Head, which is brewed in Bristol and offered on draft at my local pub, The George, Croscombe. A friend of mine, also participating in Dry January, mentioned that as a wine drinker, she prefers Clear Head over non-alcoholic wine, despite typically not drinking beer! Another favorite is Guinness 0.0, which tastes remarkably similar to the original; as one friend put it, it’s practically a health drink!

Another rewarding aspect of Dry January has been the support I’ve received from those around me. I’ve even found camaraderie with a close friend quietly participating in Dry January alongside me. The pubs and restaurants I’ve visited (no less than if I had been drinking alcohol) have been eager to provide a variety of non-alcoholic options. During a recent Prosecco and Platters night at The Cross (Croscombe), the owner, Terri, ensured my glass was always filled with alcohol-free Prosecco. There were moments that evening when I might have faltered, but Terri’s thoughtful gestures helped me fully enjoy the night with a clear head.

Now, a pertinent question arises: What happens after Dry January? Should I extend my commitment, cut back, or return to my old habits? This is the next chapter I need to navigate. In the meantime, I have a follow-up meeting with the Public Health team at Somerset Council where I hope to gather more evidence on post-Dry January experiences.

Are you participating in Dry January? How has it been for you, and what are your thoughts on what comes next? I’d love to hear from you!