05 February 2025
The number of alcohol-specific deaths in Scotland has reached a 15-year high, the latest official figures show.
There were 1,277 deaths from conditions wholly caused by alcohol recorded in 2023, compared to 1,276 the year before, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) data reveals.
There were 10,473 alcohol-specific deaths in the UK overall in 2023, a rate of 15.9 per 100,000 – another record high for the country.
Scotland continues to have one of the highest rates of alcohol deaths in the UK along with Northern Ireland – 22.6 per 100,000 people and 18.5 per 100,000 respectively.
David Mais, of the social care and health division of the ONS, said: “Today’s results show 10,473 alcohol-specific deaths were registered in the UK in 2023.
“This is an increase of 4.2% compared to 2022 and continues the upward trend we have seen since 2018.
“However, rates decreased for the first time since 2020 for people aged between 25 and 59 years.”
Commenting on the new figures, Prof Susanna Galea-Singer, chair of the Addictions Faculty at the 免费黑料网 in Scotland, said:
“Every alcohol or drug related death is an absolute tragedy for the family and loved ones left behind. It is Scotland’s shame that alcohol deaths continue to remain one of the highest in the UK and Europe.
“We also know alcohol related hospital admissions are at an all-time high. This indicates people with alcohol addiction are seeking treatment but there are no robust plans to provide addiction care and treatment to such individuals and their families - whilst they're in our hospitals.
“It’s clear the situation cannot be allowed to continue. What we need is a bold and consistent plan. The Scottish Government must look at realistic and carefully considered services to address alcohol-related problems for the health, social care and third sector. These vital services also need to be sustainable over time, with ring-fenced funding.
“There also needs to be better access, choice and support across the country, as well as joined-up services and treatment options for those who so desperately need them.”
For further information, please contact:
- Email: laura.varney@rcpsych.ac.uk
- Contact Name: Senior Media Officer (Devolved Nations) Laura Varney