Alcohol deaths in Ayrshire are on the rise amid a national crisis on booze fatalities during the Covid pandemic.
New figures show that 91 people died in the NHS Ayrshire & Arran health board region in 2021 – an increase of four from 2020.
The concerning stats on alcohol-specific deaths paint a grim picture in East Ayrshire where deaths increased by seven from 23 to 30.
In South Ayrshire, an extra four deaths were recorded, rising from 20 to 24.
North Ayrshire recorded the highest number of deaths between the three local authorities with 37 people passing away.
However, despite topping the grim chart, deaths in the north of the region have dropped by seven after they were sitting at 44 when the last data was revealed in 2020.
It comes as national data reveals Scotland has the worst level of alcohol deaths for 13 years with a total of 1,245 dying last year.
Health and social care chiefs say every death is a tragedy and vowed to continue to tackle problematic drinking.
North Ayrshire Council say they continually review their core alcohol support services, providing person-centred support, including residential rehabilitation and in-patient detoxification.
Council chiefs say new initiatives are helping to reduce the stigma around alcohol and other drug use
A spokesperson said: “Every life lost to alcohol has a devastating impact on not only the friends and loved ones of the individual, but also on our communities, and we will continue to work closely with our partners to support recovery, reduce alcohol deaths in North Ayrshire and to educate our younger generations around the impact that alcohol can have on their lives.”
East Ayrshire Council insist the “extremely challenging” pandemic has led to some using alcohol to cope.
During the pandemic, the local authority raised ‘check-ins’ for residents vulnerable to excessive alcohol use as well as running awareness sessions through social media.
The council is also offering same/next day access to support for those struggling with an alcohol or drug problem, entitled RADAR.
A spokesperson said: “Every one of these deaths is a tragic loss and our thoughts are with the families of those who have lost a loved one.
“While we have seen progress in Scotland in terms of alcohol pricing and licensing in attempting to reducing access to alcohol, these statistics illustrate that there is more to do. If you, or someone you care about, needs help in dealing with alcohol, please call RADAR on (01563) 578770.”
NHS Ayrshire & Arran say they have support available, including addiction teams which can provide detoxification treatment and counselling, with support available at home and in local community settings.
Director of public health Lynne McNiven said: “NHS Ayrshire & Arran is committed to tackling problematic alcohol use across Ayrshire and Arran and to reduce the risk of alcohol related deaths.
“We continue to work with colleagues across the entire health and social care system, alcohol and drug partnerships and with the police and justice services to prevent and reduce the harms to individuals, families and communities.
“People can and do recover from problematic substance use.
“Help and advice is always available from family doctors (GPs) or local addiction services and anyone affected or concerned about their own or a family member or friend’s alcohol use can contact them at any time.”
South Ayrshire Council has so far been unable to provide a comment.
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