For a great night out, think three wise things
Lambeth is one of the best places in the world for a night out. This Christmas, Lambeth Public Health supports the London-wide EatPacePlan initiative helping Londoners to have fun, but get home safe and well.
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Ed Davie, Lambeth Council Cabinet member for Health, said: ‘Last December, London’s ambulances responded to over 5,000 alcohol-related incidents. We support the “three wise things” campaign because we want everyone living in Lambeth (or visiting because it’s a great place to enjoy good times) to stay safe and well without missing out on the fun with friends and co-workers.’
Eat
Eat first, then drink – it slows down your absorption of alcohol, helping you stay in control. Or party somewhere that serves food.
Pace
- A soft drink, non- or low-alcoholic drink, or water between alcoholic drinks slows the rate of your drinking.
- Don’t drink alcohol anyway? Pregnant? Bars and pubs these days have great alcohol-free alternatives. Many non-alcoholic beers or cocktails are lower in sugar than orange juice, too.
- Stick to safer drinking levels – 14 units in a week over three or more days. Ask the bar staff. Do they pour doubles or singles? How much wine is in each glass? A 125ml glass of wine is around 1.5 units of alcohol.
- Beware of ‘rounds’. ‘Keeping up’ is dangerous and often very expensive.
- Stay hydrated! Start and end your night with fizzy or still water.
- Download the NHS One You – Drink Less app to keep track of what you’re drinking and spending.
Plan
- Before going out, think about getting home. Check last train times.
- London Buses are 24 hour. Search for the next bus with your stop or bus route number.
- Don’t leave your drinks (or your bag and phone) unattended.
- Get a taxi or book a minicab. You can hail a black cab or book via app or phone and pay by card. Minicabs are booked via app, phone, or at their office. You’ll get a booking confirmation. Only ever book with a licensed minicab company, for safety’s sake.
- Don’t walk home alone, and look after friends or colleagues who’ve had too much.
- The morning after, you may still be over the drink drive limit. Don’t risk it.
Rethink your drinking
- The Rethink your drinking scratch card was developed by experts and has been extensively evaluated.
- Get more information about alcohol and health from the NHS
- Get advice and support by phone from Drinkline 0300 123 1110.
- Eat, Pace, Plan! and Have a Merry Christmas
