Alcohol Awareness Week | 7-13 July

This year’s theme is Alcohol and Work.

This week, let’s reflect on our unique relationship with alcohol – especially in the context of work. Whether you’re in an office, on-site, working remotely, or in transition, it’s a chance to better understand how alcohol may be affecting your health, productivity, and wellbeing.

Watch Alcohol Change UK’s new short film: 

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Alcohol and Work: A Cultural Reflection

In the UK and Ireland, drinking is often woven into our social fabric – especially when the sun is out. But this culture can spill into the workplace too. From celebratory drinks after a big win, to “well-earned” pints on a Friday, or drinks while working away from home, alcohol can become a default part of work life.

But how much is too much?

The Impact of Alcohol on Our Lives

Over 10 million people in the UK regularly drink in ways that can harm their health. Even moderate drinking can lead to:

  1. Headaches and hangovers
  2. Poor sleep and low energy
  3. Increased anxiety and depression
  4. Reduced productivity and focus
  5. Strained relationships and finances

And when work stress, long hours, or life transitions (like redundancy, retirement, or parental leave) come into play, alcohol can become a coping mechanism, often making things worse.

You Don’t Need to Be Addicted to Have a Problem

You don’t have to drink every day to be affected. If alcohol is impacting your sleep, mood, relationships, finances, or performance at work, it might be time to take a closer look.

Remember our life saving rule “fit for duty”. This doesn’t just apply to drinking alcohol at work, but also being aware of the effects of hangovers and the “morning after”.  KAEFER recognises that alcohol dependency can be defined as an illness which, with the right treatment can be overcome. Employees who are concerned that they have developed dependency must seek help and support, employees who seek this help and support will be treated sympathetically and in the strictest confidence. 

Take Action

  1. ✅ Check your drinking: Check your drinking | Alcohol Change UK
  2. 📘 Download the guide: ACUK_AAW2025_AlcoholWork_Guide_A5Leaflet_V4.pdf
  3. 📱 Try Dry 31-Day Challenge: Try Dry® Anytime 31 days | Alcohol Change UK Join solo or as a team
  4. 💬 Use Health Hero (our EAP): Call 0800 358 4858 or wellbeing.hub.healthhero.com Username: KAEFER Password: eap4support
  5. 🗣  Speak to your local HR department or a member of the OH Team: They can arrange support through occupational health
  6. 🩺 Speak to your GP: For confidential advice and referrals
  7. 🧭 Find local support: Check your local authority or NHS service directories

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