Overview of the Alcohol Action NZ Campaign
NZNO has formally endorsed the Alcohol Action NZ Campaign which is to be launched 10 September 2009.
The campaign aims to reduce the social, economic and health burden and costs from alcohol, which are significant in New Zealand.
The campaign is focused around a set of evidence-based solutions identified in the seminal WHO sponsored publication Alcohol: no ordinary commodity (Barbour, Caetano, Casswell et al, 2003).
The solutions are collectively being referred to as the “5 + Solution”:
- Increase the price
- Increase the purchase age
- Decrease the accessibility
- Decrease the marketing/advertising
- Increase drink-driving surveillance
Plus increase intervention opportunities for regular heavy drinkers.
The campaign is led by Dr Doug Sellman, Professor of Psychiatry and Director of Addiction Medicine, National Addiction Centre.
A nationwide series of lectures will be delivered in 30 towns and cities from Kaitaia to Invercargill during September to November to raise support for the campaign which brings together health, social welfare, police, councils, iwi, churches and other organisations.
The health and social impact of alcohol use and abuse is seen in every sector of health and nursing.
It is a leading cause of poverty. This campaign fits with NZNO’s strategic aims around health policy, ethical partnerships with community and consumer groups, establishing a strong public image and opposing injustice and inequality wherever it impacts on the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders.
Further Information