Cornwall has been chosen as one of the 33 areas to take part in a new ‘Local Alcohol Action Area’ scheme over the next two years.

The move follows pioneering efforts to gather alcohol-related health data by the county’s public health and community safety teams. 

The evidence gathered began to introduce public health as a factor in alcohol licensing applications. 

Cornwall’s approach was demonstrated to government bodies.

Now, in this new ‘Local Alcohol Action Area’ scheme, Cornwall will seek to use that data to respond to local issues. 

Action

An action plan  covers developing the public health role in licensing; improving the use of hospital casualty department assault data to address violence hotspots; helping to increase focus on people and families with complex issues; tackling problem areas; and trying to reduce the likelihood of disorder and injury in Cornwall’s night-time economy.

Devon and Cornwall crime commissioner Alison Hernandez said: ‘I am sure this will help all partners in Cornwall deal with some of the negative impacts alcohol can have on our towns, residents and visitors.’

Richard Chidwick, Public Health England Southwest’s programme manager, said: ‘It provides an important opportunity to enhance local work to reduce the health harms related to alcohol, in specific and targeted ways.’