North East Lincolnshire Council and partners are supporting Dry January, the month long national ‘no alcohol’ challenge from Alcohol Concern and Public Health England, and encouraging local residents who would like to take part to take a month out from alcohol and enjoy the benefits of having a break from drinking.

The national campaign launched last Friday, begun to raise awareness of Dry January at a time when people are already feeling like they have over indulged (or know they will do) and aims to show that ‘taking a break from alcohol’ after the Christmas period is a beneficial thing for your wallet, waistline and general health. Dry January is not about never drinking again, it’s just an opportunity for people to reflect on their drinking patterns and to give their body a break from alcohol after the festive period.

An independent study by the University of Sussex showed that 72% of participants in Dry January last year had maintained moderate levels of drinking six months after completing the month. After completing Dry January participants also highlighted what benefits they experienced after 31 days alcohol free:

• 79% of participants saved money
• 62% of participants had better sleep and more energy
• 49% of participants lost weight

Joanne Hewson, deputy chief executive, communities said:

“January is the perfect time to sign up to a holiday from alcohol. It’s an opportunity for people to reflect on their drinking patterns and to give their body a break from alcohol after the festive period. We are supporting Dry January and many other local organisations, including pharmacies, Freshney Place, Shoreline, Lincs Inspire and some town centre pubs are getting involved too. Look out for the posters around the town. I will definitely be taking part.”

The New Year is the perfect time to reset drinking habits, but as with any commitment to a healthier lifestyle change, people need to prepare themselves in advance in order to be successful. Dry January is providing people with a comprehensive online support programme to help them through their month alcohol free, from January 1 2015. It will provide advice and encouragement to motivate people throughout the month, and show that going dry does not mean not having fun. Participants and supporters will also be engaged by Dry January via social media – both to encourage sign-ups over Christmas and motivate people giving up alcohol throughout January.

www.facebook.com/DryJanuary and on twitter #DryJanuary2015.

Sign up at www.dryjanuary.org.uk