Try going dry this January

With the busy Christmas period upon us, now might be the time to start thinking about your New Year resolutions.

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.

Dry January, being run by Alcohol Concern in conjunction with Blackburn with Darwen Council, aims to start new conversations about alcohol and give people a different perspective on their use of it.

Locally the Council and its re:fresh team is working with partner organisations including VOICE and ADEPT and employers to put the invitation out to see if the borough can beat the 500 sign-ups achieved last year.

Dry January is your chance to ditch the hangover, lose weight, save money – and make a real difference to yours and your family’s lives.

Even if you don’t make the full month you can still take part. Dry January is primarily about giving your body a break and taking some time out to think about your drinking.

Sign up at www.dryjanuary.org.uk

On the Dry January site, and via related social media, you will be able to share your experiences with others going dry. You can also receive regular emails giving tips, advice and information on drinking alternatives.

Councillor Brian Taylor, Lead Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “After the busy Christmas period, Dry January gives people the chance to reflect on their alcohol intake. Cutting out alcohol for a month can help them re-evaluate their drinking levels long-term. I’d encourage as many people as possible from individuals to groups of friends and families to sign up and take part in the challenge.

“Going hangover free will mean a rejuvenated start to 2015. With better sleep and fewer headaches you might even find some spare time to try out a new hobby or sport. On top of that there are lots of health benefits to having a break and, as if that wasn’t enough, you’ll save a small fortune.”