Are you ready for the Dry January challenge?

Shropshire Council’s public health team are supporting Alcohol Concern’s 2016 Dry January campaign.

Dry January aims to show people the benefits of cutting down on their alcohol intake, whilst raising money for the charity which is dedicated to tackling the harm caused by alcohol to individuals, families and society.

The charity wants as many people as possible to sign up for the challenge this January. It’s an opportunity to raise money for Alcohol Concern by asking friends, family and colleagues to sponsor you. There is plenty of help and support available online to help you enjoy your ‘booze free’ month.

As well as receiving the awe and admiration of your friends and family, cutting out alcohol can also help you to lose weight, sleep better, feel more energetic and have clearer skin. You’re even likely to save quite a few pounds along the way. So taking part in the campaign may also help you with your other New Year’s resolutions too.

Karen Calder, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health, and Chair of Shropshire’s Health and Well-being Board, said:

“Dry January is encouraging people to ‘stay off the booze for 31 days’. There are great health benefits from doing this, as well as giving an opportunity to support Alcohol Concern. I would encourage people to get involved and take the challenge. It’s an opportunity to make some real lifestyle changes, as well as setting yourself a personal challenge. “

You can sign up to be a Dry January Champion at www.dryjanuary.org.uk, where you’ll receive free advice, support and information.

Shropshire’s public health team are also looking for some ‘Dry January Champions’ to help spread the word and share their experiences. If you’d like to help them by writing a short blog about your Dry January experiences, please contact ShropshireTogether@shropshire.gov.uk or call 01743 253971.