Figures show problem drinkers in the city are costing the public £12.5m a year in police and hospital resources.
The statistics from Alcohol Concern show there are around 450 people – each costing the public purse £30,000 annually – who are turning down treatment and causing problems on the streets.
The charity says the costs are racked up in police time when officers have to intervene in medical and anti-social incidents, and when doctors and emergency rooms have to deal with the health impacts of heavy drinking.
Notts Police has launched the ‘Blue Light Project’, working with hardcore street drinkers in the city’s Arboretum ward, who officers say play a “significant role” in antisocial behaviour in the area.
Police and Crime Commissioner Paddy Tipping is backing the scheme and has vowed to reduce alcohol-related crime.
Around half of all violence in Nottinghamshire is thought to be related to drink.
Mr Tipping said: “Alcohol will continue to present a challenge to the Police, the public and health providers until those dependent on drink are put on the right pathway to recovery.
“This is why a considerable part of my community safety fund has been channelled into local projects which address alcohol addiction and motivate service users to change their behaviour.”
As part of plans to change crime rates in the city, Mr Tipping said he hopes to persuade young people to drink sensibly when on a night out in an attempt to reduce alcohol-related violence and crime.
It is estimated that seven per cent of the population of Nottingham City could be classed as ‘high-risk drinkers’.
Know your limits: Figures suggest seven per cent of Nottingham’s population are drinking to a ‘risky’ level
This refers to;
- Men who are drinking around 8 units per day
The recommended daily limit is 3-4 units
- Women who are drinking around 6 units per day
The recommended daily limit is 2-3 units
A unit is around half a pint of standard strength lager or around two thirds of a small (125ml) glass of standard wine.
Councillor Nicola Heaton, who heads up community services at the city council, said: “We are committed to mitigating the impact of the mismanagement of alcohol, including the resulting crime and anti-social behaviour.
“People should be able to enjoy our vibrant night time economy and not have it spoilt by anti-social or inappropriate behaviour.”
Alcohol Awareness Week runs from the 16 – 22 November across the UK, and help dealing with drink problems is available on the campaign website.
