Redundancies leading to increase in drinking

People are turning to alcohol to relieve the stress caused by redundancy, according to new research by alcohol awareness charity Drinkaware.

One in 10 adults, the equivalent of nearly five million people, has either been made redundant or knows someone who has been made redundant in the last six months and is drinking more as a result.

The research also indicates that being out of work also affects people's drinking patterns with almost half (49 per cent) drinking more during the day.

Chris Sorek, chief executive of Drinkaware, said: "Losing your job is recognised as one of the top 10 most stressful life events, and many people are turning to alcohol as a coping mechanism.

"But alcohol is a depressant and can lead to further stress and anxiety, which can make the effects of redundancy much worse."

In a move to help people cope with redundancy Drinkaware has teamed up with careers coach John Lees to produce a free advice booklet: 'Made redundant? The practical guide to getting back into work and staying healthy'.

It can be downloaded from www.drinkaware.co.uk​ and is also widely available from GP's surgeries, Jobcentre Plus, and recruitment agencies.