Alcohol

The NHS recommends that both men and women should not regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week, and this should be spread across at least three days, including alcohol-free days. Drinking within these guidelines keeps health risks low, though there is no entirely safe level of alcohol consumption.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also stated that when it comes to alcohol consumption, there is no safe amount that does not affect health.

Alcohol is a toxic chemical that can have a wide range of adverse effects on almost every part of your body.

Alcohol misuse

Alcohol misuse is when you drink in a way that’s harmful, or when you’re dependent on alcohol. To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level, both men and women are advised not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week.

Find support

You can read more about alcohol units, alcohol misuse, the impact of alcohol on your health, alcohol and pregnancy, and how to get help on the NHS website.

Click on the links below to find out about local support services:

• Staffordshire County Council
• Staffordshire Treatment and Recovery System (STARS)
• Stoke-on-Trent Community Drug and Alcohol Service

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Alcohol Strategy

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board (ICB) and the Drug and Alcohol Partnership, through the Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue, and Crime, has worked with ICS partners to develop an Alcohol Strategy to support a vision for Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to be a place where alcohol-related harm is minimised. The strategy is informed by our local Alcohol Needs Assessment, which was completed in 2024.

You will be able to read about the Alcohol Strategy on the ICS website soon, so keep checking for updates.