The Donegal-based Alcohol Forum group has unveiled plans to host a national week of alcohol awareness and recovery from 29th October to 4th November 2012.
The alcohol advocacy and action group made the announcement in a week that saw alcohol and drug-fuelled incidents take lives and make headlines.
This campaign will see a number of nationwide events and lectures take place to raise awareness on alcohol and alcohol misuse. The only alcohol group working on a north south basis, the campaign will cover the 32-counties of Ireland.
North South Strategist Eamon O’Kane says, “the week will start with the ‘Dry Run’ – a 5k walk and run encouraging people to get out in the fresh air and in doing so taking a first step to better health. ‘Accelerate your health, moderate your drinking’ is our campaign slogan and we will also encourage GP’s to write more ‘Green Prescriptions’ whereby the medicine prescribed is exercise.”
The ‘Dry Run’ will also provide an opportunity for family members to come out in solidarity, in memory of, or indeed in support of somebody who has had a battle with alcohol.
A series of other media and awareness campaigns will also happen during this week with Alcohol Forum now looking to partner with key strategic groups who also share their vision for a “healthier and more responsible society.”
Eamon O’Kane says, “we all understand that our drinking is almost as big a challenge as our economic woes. We are not in the business of lecturing individuals, but instead educating and advocating for a positive change to our mindset, culture and habits relating to alcohol. Our key message is moderation.”
Alcohol Forum is now inviting people to register their interest in this event with further details being revealed in the coming weeks.
To get involved or for further information contact joanne@mediabox.ie or call 087-6237373.
For more information on Alcohol Forum log onto alcoholforum.org or find them on facebook and twitter.
