In a world where alcohol is seen as central to everyday experiences – from birthdays and barbecues to sofa nights and watching sports – it’s not surprising that alcohol can feel like an inevitable part of many people’s lives.
The theme of this Alcohol Awareness Week, which begins on Monday (6 July, 2026), is ‘alcohol and me’, and the charity Alcohol Change is starting a conversation by asking: how might alcohol truly be impacting our lives and what can we do about it?
As part of this, the City of Wolverhampton Council, substance misuse service Recovery Near You and other partners will be highlighting the harms associated with alcohol, and the treatment and support which is available in the city for those who need it.
Representatives of Recovery Near You, the Service User Improvement Team (SUIT) and Good Shepherd will be on hand to provide friendly support and practical advice to people at the following locations:
- Bilston Carnival from 12pm to 5pm on Saturday (4 July)
- Upper Villers Gurdwara from 10am to 2pm on Sunday (5 July), including free liver health checks
- Central Library from 10am to 3pm on Tuesday (7 July)
- Wolves@Work at i10 from 9am to 4pm on Thursday 9 July, including free liver health checks
- The Hub at Wolverhampton railway station from 10am to 3pm on Friday 10 July, including free liver health checks
- Mandir Temple, Penn Road, from 10am to 2pm on Sunday 12 July, including free liver health checks.
Levels of alcohol harm are high in Wolverhampton compared to other parts of the country, with mortality rates and hospital admission rates for alcohol specific conditions both significantly above the national average. Meanwhile, of those who need support, only around a third of people are currently engaged with services.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: “Many people enjoy drinking alcohol, but it’s important to keep it in moderation. Alcohol related harm affects millions of people every year, leading not only to health problems but also to financial pressures, strained relationships and other challenges for families.
“We hope the activities taking place during Alcohol Awareness Week will prompt people to think about the risks of drinking too much and remind them that there is a wide range of information, advice and support available if they need it.
“If you’re worried about your own drinking, or that of a family member or friend, we encourage you to take this opportunity to learn more about the help on offer from organisations in Wolverhampton.”
Anyone who is concerned about their, or someone else’s drinking, can get information, and support by contacting Recovery Near You. Visit Recovery Near You or call 0300 200 2400 for adults and 0300 123 3360 for young people. Lines are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
To find out more about Alcohol Awareness Week, please visit Alcohol Change UK.
