SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan has shown his support for a major alcohol awareness programme for over-50s in Foyle.
The SDLP representative today met staff from the Drink Wise, Age Well programme in their base in Spencer House to hear about their work in helping local people aged 50+ make informed choices about alcohol use.
Speaking after the visit, Mark said: "It has been good to be able to see up close the valuable work being carried out by the Drink Wise, Age Well team locally.
“Sadly, we see the cost of alcohol abuse and addiction everyday: the cost to individuals' health; the huge financial cost to our struggling health service; and the massive societal, human cost of family breakdown and even homelessness.”
“This initiative, which promotes safe drinking and raises awareness of the pitfalls of not drinking sensibly, is very welcome. I would like to commend all those involved in its delivery and also to thank the funders of the project.”
Mr. Durkan was welcomed by Thelma Abernethy, chief executive of Addiction NI – the charity leading the Drink Wise, Age Well programme in Northern Ireland. She said:
She said: “We are delighted that Mark was able to see the great work being done by the local Drink Wise, Age Well team to help over-50s make healthier choices about alcohol throughout the West.”
“Many people over 50 drink safely, but evidence points to a growing number who are experiencing alcohol-related harm as they age.
“Through our work on the ground, Drink Wise, Age Well is helping to bring about positive change to the health and wellbeing of our 50+ population, and we look forward to continuing this work alongside our delivery partners in the years ahead.”
Drink Wise, Age Well is a Britain-wide alcohol awareness, support and training programme made up of six strategic partners.
Supported by the Big Lottery Fund, it operates in the Western Health Trust area, and makes use of public awareness campaigns and training for those working with over-50s across the community and voluntary sector.
For further information about the programme or to access support services log onto www.drinkwiseagewell.org.uk or call 02871 160236.
Photo shows Mr Durkan with Joanne Smith (left), Drink Wise, Age Well Locality Manager and Thelma Abernethy, chief executive of Addiction NI.
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