Professional help to reduce or stop drinking

If you’re ready to make a change, we’re here to help.

Our AlcoholWise programme offers up to six free 30-minute phone or face-to-face sessions with an NHS alcohol expert. You’ll get practical tools to reduce your drinking, manage triggers, and build healthier habits.

Who is this for?

These sessions are designed for people who are drinking above the recommended limit but aren’t experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms.

If you are having symptoms like shaking, sweating or feeling unwell when you don’t drink, you may need a different kind of support. Take the AlcoholWise Test to find out which service is right for you. We’ll make sure you’re directed to the right help, including our i-access team if needed.

This quick and easy tool asks a few simple questions about your drinking habits and gives you a personalised score.

It will help you understand your drinking level, whether it could be affecting your health, and what steps to take next - whether that’s self-help tips or professional support. It only takes 2 minutes find out!

Take the AlcoholWise Test.

Why cut down?

Reducing your alcohol intake can lead to:

  • improved sleep, mood, and energy levels
  • a lower risk of long-term health issues, such as liver damage and heart disease
  • financial savings and more time for activities you enjoy.

Tips to help you reduce your drinking

Click on each step below for practical tips:

Reflect on why and when you drink. Identifying your triggers can help you develop strategies to manage them effectively.

Keep a diary or use an app to record your daily alcohol consumption. This awareness can motivate you to stick to your goals.

Decide on specific, realistic targets for reducing your alcohol intake. For example:

  • Limit drinking to weekends only
  • Set a maximum number of drinks per occasion
  • Set a maximum number of units to drink per day.

Schedule regular days each week without alcohol to help break habitual patterns and give your body a chance to recover.

  • Opt for non-alcoholic or lower-strength beverages.
  • Explore mocktail recipes or new soft drinks to make the experience enjoyable.

  • Keep less alcohol at home to reduce temptation.
  • Use smaller glasses and measure your drinks to control portions.

  • Practice ways to decline alcoholic drinks politely.
  • Suggest social activities that don’t involve alcohol, like going for a walk or visiting a café.

If you’re dependent on alcohol, don’t stop drinking suddenly

Stopping alcohol abruptly can be dangerous if you’re drinking heavily. Please read our guidance on cutting down safely and get support from i-access, our alcohol dependency service.

How to get support

Call 0300 222 5932 (Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm) or complete our online referral form. Our team is here to support you with specialist advice and treatment tailored to your needs.

Take the AlcoholWise Test

Tools and resources