Asda Alloa and Drinkaware join forces to offer advice

The UK's leading alcohol education charity set-up a stand at the store last Friday to give customers the opportunity to ask questions.

Participants were encouraged to complete a quick assessment using Drinkaware scratch cards and took home a free alcohol unit measuring cup and calorie wheel.

There was also specific help for parents on how to speak to their kids about alcohol and how to answer the difficult questions that children ask.

Keith Brown MSP went along to show his support.

He said: "I think it's a great initiative. I am very conscious about the need for more information about alcohol.

"Especially for the younger generation and how easily it can effect them."

A long-standing partner of Asda, Drinkaware provides consumers with honest information, advice and tips to help them make informed decisions about alcohol.

People who took part also had the chance to enter a prize draw to win a £50 Asda gift card.

Chris Lowe, senior director for corporate affairs at Asda, said: “Working with Drinkaware is central to our role as a responsible retailer of alcohol and this new project aims to provide impartial, evidence-based information and practical resources in a non-judgmental, engaging and fun environment.

“Our customer insight shows that a lot of shoppers think about their health in January and look for ways to cut back on their alcohol consumption after the festive period. We are pleased to be hosting Drinkaware trained colleagues in store offering accessible, friendly advice to customers.”

Elaine Hindal, chief executive at Drinkaware, added: “Understanding your alcohol intake can be confusing which is why we have produced a series of scratchcards to help present clear information, in a simple, non-judgemental manner.

"This January we are spreading the word about how having just a little less alcohol can help people stay healthy and we hope the information we present can help people make better choices about their drinking.”