Alcohol charity, Alcohol Focus Scotland, have launched a new online support service AFS Alcohol Support Online for people in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire concerned about their own or someone else's drinking. 

The free service will allow people to sign up via local agency Alcohol Support Ltd's website www.alcoholsupport.co.uk and exchange messages with a trained alcohol counsellor. 

Online support fills a gap in current provision of alcohol services as some people who would not consider attending a traditional counselling service would prefer online support as a way of receiving support and assistance. This could include people who feel there is a stigma in asking for help for alcohol problems, young people who prefer to communicate online, and those who are prevented by geography or disability from accessing other services. 

Jack Law, Chief executive of Alcohol Focus Scotland said: 'We are really excited about this innovative way of providing access to help and advice for people concerned about their drinking. One in three men and one in four women exceed the recommended daily limits so there is a real need for services such as this which can encourage people to cut down their drinking to healthier levels.' 

Harry Miller, General Manager of Alcohol Support Ltd said: The service, which is available to  members of the public living throughout Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, is an excellent opportunity to allow individuals suffering from their own or someone else's alcohol problem to engage with qualified professionals and be provided with confidential support. It will particularly benefit hard to reach groups and those living in isolation.  

Alcohol Focus Scotland is a national charity for alcohol issues. Work involves providing information and training on alcohol issues, raising awareness of alcohol-related problems, and influencing alcohol policy.  

Alcohol Support Ltd is a local alcohol charity affiliated to Alcohol Focus Scotland.  With over 35 years alcohol counselling experience it provides a range of counselling and residential services to children and adults affected by their own or someone else's drinking living throughout Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire.   www.alcoholsupport.co.uk

For more information contact:  Gillian Kindness, Publicity and Information Administrator, Alcohol Support Ltd 01224 595981 or visit www.alcoholsupport.co.uk