Record numbers pledge to go ‘dry’ this January

546 people from Blackburn with Darwen have so far signed up to take part in Dry January – beating the borough’s total of 500 from last year’s campaign with only half the month gone.

Blackburn with Darwen is backing Dry January again in 2015 – inviting people to sign up and join in with thousands of others taking a break from booze this January.

The Council’s Public Health and re:fresh teams have been working with partners including VOICE and ADEPT and local employers like Crown Paints, Graham & Brown, The Mall Blackburn and Blackburn College to put out the invitation to sign up and help beat the 500 sign-ups achieved during last year’s campaign.

That goal has been achieved with time to spare but it’s still not too late for more people to take part! Sign up here today and pledge your support. The Dry January organisers are keen to point out that if it has not been possible to commit to the whole month, you can still take part – even if it’s a few days, a week or two or anything in between. It’s primarily about giving your body a break and taking some time out this month to think about your drinking.

On the Dry January site, and via related social media, you can share your experiences with others going dry. You will also receive regular emails giving tips, advice and information on drinking alternatives. There’s also a Dry January Game that is intended to support those taking part. Visit: https://www.dryjanuary.net for more details.

Councillor Brian Taylor, Lead Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said:

“Well done to everyone taking part, even those who are only having a short break. I hope it’s going well for you and you are enjoying the health benefits of making a rejuvenated start to 2015. Remember that it is still possible to meet friends and colleagues in your favourite bar just avoid alcohol.

“To beat last year’s final figure this early is brilliant. The people of the borough have clearly backed the campaign again which is great to see. Why not use the new perspective you will gain from not drinking as a result of the campaign, and everything you learn through the month, to create a new set of rules for your drinking as you move forward in 2015.”