People in Eastbourne and Hastings who are out drinking during the World Cup can get hold of free goodies to help encourage them to enjoy themselves responsibly.
1000 bottles of water and lollies will be distributed throughout the rest of the tournament (which runs until 11 July) by local street pastor teams.
Nick Cole, who works for the NHS in East Sussex to promote sensible drinking, says
“Water helps to keep drinkers hydrated and reduces drunkenness.
Lollies have a similar effect by increasing blood sugar levels.
Both bottled water and lollies give people “something to do” and their use in other areas has been shown to reduce incidents of drunken anti-social behaviour.
The Street Pastors will also help to distribute leaflets giving advice on keeping safe and drinking sensibly during the World Cup - as well as handy list of match dates.”
Distributing water and lollies is part of a wider campaign by the East Sussex Safer Communities Partnership called ‘Watch. Enjoy. Remember’.
It highlights the danger of missing out on the big game due to excess drink, and shows the possible consequences of being drunk: including getting arrested for causing trouble or being ill and missing the match.
The campaign is being delivered by organisations including, East Sussex County Council, Sussex Police, the local NHS and local Community Safety Partnerships.
If you would like help, advice or information about alcohol, contact: Action for Change on 0300 111 2470 or visit www.action-for-change.org.
To track your drinking, download the ‘NHS Drinks Tracker’ to your iPhone or visit www.drinking.nhs.uk.
You can also contact Drinkline on 0800 917 8282.
