EIGHT thousand Bradford households will be sent a booklet advising them on making "healthy choices" about alcohol during lockdown.

Nine weeks into lockdown the Council has announced that it will be issuing a 16 page booklet containing advice about drinking.

It was put together amid concerns that more people will misuse alcohol as a way of handling stress and loneliness.

Thousands of households across Bradford District are set to receive a booklet containing advice and guidance on alcohol consumption during the current coronavirus crisis.

The 16-page booklet, which will drop through the letter boxes of more than 8,000 homes in the coming days, provides information and advice about making healthier choices about alcohol.

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It was put together amid concern over increased alcohol misuse during the Covid-19 pandemic with studies indicating that some people are turning to alcohol to handle the stress, anxiety and boredom of lockdown.

According to a recent survey from Alcohol Change UK, one in five drinkers has been drinking more frequently since the coronavirus lockdown.

The booklet includes information on safe drinking limits and methods of reducing or controlling alcohol intake such as keeping drink diaries and making reduction plans. Alongside information and self-help materials, it also includes information about where to get help if a person finds that they are struggling to cut down without support.

The guide was developed by New Directions, Bradford’s drug and alcohol service, which is delivered through Project 6, Bridge and Change Grow Live in partnership with Bradford Council’s Public Health team.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Healthy People and Places, said: “We know life is not easy for anyone right now. Stressful times can mean people turn to substances such as alcohol more than usual.

“We want to help as many people as possible to make healthier choices about drinking alcohol. We don’t want people to get into drinking habits that could develop into long-term problems.

“I would urge anyone who is trying to stay alcohol free and struggling or is worried that their drinking is increasing to get in touch with New Directions on 01274 296023.”