Dry January

Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates AM, today launched the 2016 Dry January campaign outside the Senedd with members of Cardiff Medicals rugby club.

The annual challenge, brought to you by the charity Alcohol Concern, asks ordinary social drinkers to go without a drop of alcohol for 31 days, and is supported by the Welsh Government. An evaluation of the 2015 campaign found that:

• More than 50,000 people formally signed up to take part
• Nearly two thirds of participants managed an entire month of not drinking
• More than two thirds cut back on their drinking long-term

Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates AM, said:

“Our Change4Life Wales alcohol campaign offers advice on sensible drinking throughout the year, but the Dry January challenge is a great opportunity to reassess our relationship with alcohol, as well as possibly gaining some great health benefits such as lower blood sugar and blood pressure, improved sleep, losing weight, and feeling more energised.”

Cardiff Medicals Club Captain, Joe Arthur, said:

“As medical students we have a duty to help ensure that people know the damage excessive alcohol consumption can do to their lives and health. We’re not saying don’t drink and don’t have a laugh, but we recognise the importance of drinking in moderation.

“The Dry January campaign rightly recognises that we all need to take stock every once in a while; and coming so close after Christmas, it’s a great time to do exactly that. We’re glad to be able to offer our support.” 

Alcohol Concern Cymru Director, Andrew Misell, said:

“Dry January is not about getting anyone to stop drinking for ever more. It’s about all of us who drink having a pause for thought, and maybe getting out of some drinking routines we’ve got into. 

“Each year, thousands of people take up the Dry January challenge to go for 31 days without beer, wine or whatever alcohol they usually drink. If that sounds like a step too far for you, we’d like to ask you to give it a go. If it sounds easy as pie, perhaps you should try it.”