Alcohol Awareness Week 2026: Alcohol and Me

Alcohol Awareness Week 2026 takes place from 6–12 July and this year's theme is "Alcohol and Me".

The campaign encourages people to pause and reflect on their relationship with alcohol and consider how it may be affecting their health, wellbeing, relationships, finances and family life.

Alcohol Awareness Week is not about labels or judgement. Instead, it provides an opportunity for individuals to think about their habits, make informed choices and access support if they need it.

Why is this important?

Alcohol-related harm can affect people long before serious problems are recognised. It can impact:

• Sleep and energy levels
• Mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Relationships with family and friends
• Physical health
• Finances and daily routines

For children and young people, alcohol-related harm within families can also affect wellbeing, relationships and home life. Early support can make a significant difference for the whole family.

Supporting children, young people and families

Wakefield Safeguarding Children Partnership recognises that children can be affected by the experiences and challenges faced by the adults around them.

Alcohol Awareness Week is an opportunity to encourage supportive conversations, reduce stigma and promote early help before concerns escalate.

If you are worried about your own alcohol use, someone else's drinking, or the impact on children and families, support is available.

Staying safe this summer

With warmer weather forecast across the district, it is important to remember that alcohol and hot weather can be a risky combination.

Alcohol can increase the risk of:

• Dehydration
• Overheating
• Sun-related illness

If you choose to drink alcohol during periods of hot weather:

✅ Drink water regularly
✅ Spend time in the shade
✅ Look after your friends and family
✅ Know when to seek help

Free and confidential support

Turning Point Wakefield provides free and confidential support for people affected by alcohol or drug use.

Support is available for:

• Young people through Turning Point Inspiring Futures
• Families through Turning Point Inspiring Families
• Adults looking to make changes to their drinking or drug use

Support does not have to mean crisis. Small positive changes and early conversations can make a real difference.

Useful resources

• Turning Point Wakefield
• Alcohol Use in Children and Young People – One Minute Guide
• Alcohol and Me campaign information
• Alcohol Use Quiz

Key message

This Alcohol Awareness Week, take a moment to reflect on the role alcohol plays in your life.

Whether it is considering the impact on your wellbeing, checking in with friends and family, or seeking support for yourself or someone else, small steps can make a big difference.

💜 If you need support, remember: you are not alone. Help is available across Wakefield whenever you are ready.