As Alcohol Awareness Week 2026 takes place this week, Bury Drop In is encouraging the community to reflect on this year’s theme, “Alcohol and Me”, and the deeply personal relationship many people have with alcohol misuse.

For people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, alcohol misuse is rarely a simple issue. Behind every story is someone living with trauma, isolation, poor mental health, relationship breakdown, financial hardship or the ongoing pressures of surviving without a safe place to live.

Adverse childhood experiences, trauma, neglect, and abuse can lead to alcohol misuse, as well as sleeping rough in fear and shame. Alcohol addiction is classified as a disease because it involves changes in the brain that affect behaviour, control and decision making, but support is not always available when it is needed.

Bury Drop In volunteers and partner agencies see first-hand how alcohol can become intertwined with everyday life for vulnerable people, often as a coping mechanism for difficult circumstances rather than a lifestyle choice.

“Alcohol and Me” highlights the importance of understanding our individual relationship with alcohol without judgement or stigma. For many of the guests supported by Bury Drop In, alcohol dependency can both contribute to and result from homelessness, creating a cycle that can be incredibly difficult to break.

National research paints a stark picture. According to Homeless Link, 49% of respondents (344 people) reported self-medicating with drugs or alcohol to help manage with their mental health. At Bury Drop In, these national trends are reflected in the experiences of guests attending twice-weekly sessions. In the past year, agency liaison helped 762 individuals take crucial steps forward by connecting them with local agencies including health, housing and addiction support. A significant number of guests have also required additional support for alcohol dependency, substance misuse and wider health needs. Through close partnership working with organisations including NHS Health Outreach and other local services, guests are supported to access the help they need in a safe and non-judgemental environment.

Alcohol Awareness Week is an opportunity not only to raise awareness, but also to encourage compassion, understanding and meaningful conversations around alcohol use and its impact.

The charity is encouraging local residents, businesses and supporters to continue backing its work with some of the most vulnerable people in the community, providing vital support to guests facing addiction challenges, alongside housing and health issues. Donations will help ensure this support can continue for those who need it most.

To find out more about our work, or to make a donation and help us continue supporting those in need, please visit our donate webpage.