The LGA have published a series of case studies looking how councils are supporting and transforming the lives of people affected by alcohol.

The LGA said: “Councils are working hard to minimise this by commissioning high-quality lifestyle and behaviour change services, as well as treatment for those experiencing alcohol dependence. Providing these services is good value for money because it cuts crime, improves health and can support individuals and families on the road to recovery.”

Consuming large amounts of alcohol is damaging to the brain, nervous system, heart and, of course, the liver. Every year more than 5,500 deaths in England can be directly attributed to drinking – and in many thousands more it plays a role. In hospitals one in 14 admissions and one in 10 A&E visits are because of drinking. It is also a factor in family breakdown, domestic abuse, criminality, anti-social behaviour and lost productivity. The overall cost to the economy has been placed at around £21 billion a year. Thankfully there are some signs of progress. The number of people drinking to excess is falling. But, 28 per cent of men and 14 per cent of women are still drinking at levels that put them at increased risk.