As part of our new monthly campaign - Healthy Conversations – Let’s talk, we’re focusing on drugs and alcohol, and this week we’re taking a look at who and which areas in our city are most impacted by harmful substance use, and why.
Health inequalities are the unfair and avoidable differences in people's health that are caused by factors such as where we live, how much money we have, and our background. These differences mean that some people are more likely to develop health issues, or even die younger than others, when it could be prevented.
Councillor Mitchie Alexander, Cabinet member for Communities, Equalities, Public Health and Adult Social Care, said: “Health inequalities are not abstract – they are lived realities that shape people’s lives and limit their choices. When it comes to harmful drug and alcohol use, we must recognise that some communities face deeper, more complex challenges.”
More than 16,700 adults shared their views with us through the Health Counts 2024 survey, providing the most comprehensive data yet of our city’s health and wellbeing. The results highlight disparities in harmful drug and alcohol use across different groups – and reaffirm the urgent need for targeted support in our communities.
The Health Counts 2024 findings make it clear that drug and alcohol harms do not affect all residents equally. People already facing adversity – through financial insecurity, housing issues or mental health problems – are at far greater risk.
Overall, 16% of adults binge-drink each week, while 2% drink daily or almost daily – and those rates rise in our more deprived neighbourhoods. In the most deprived 20% of areas, 37% of residents consume alcohol at increasing, higher-risk or potentially dependent levels; this compares to 48% in the least deprived areas.
Drug use also remains a significant concern across the city, with 20% of respondents reportedly using drugs not prescribed by a doctor or available over the counter in the past year.
Again, the harms are not equally distributed. Those living in areas such as Whitehawk, Moulsecoomb, Bevendean, Coldean, Portslade, Hangleton and Woodingdean report greater negative effects – often compounded by factors like poor mental health, insecure housing or unemployment.
Health Counts 2024 shines a light on how multiple life challenges overlap. People experiencing homelessness, mental ill health, domestic abuse or unemployment are significantly more likely to struggle with harmful drug or alcohol use.
Councillor Alexander added: “If we want a healthier, more equitable city, we need to reach those who need the most help. Addressing these deep-rooted inequalities demands sustained, cross-sector work from the council, NHS, police, community groups and people with lived experience. It means challenging stigma, reaching into overlooked neighbourhoods and supporting the whole person – not just their substance use.”
Dave McNamara, Health Promotion & Training Team Lead at Change Grow Live, said: “Change Grow Live, in partnership with the Oasis Project, help adults, young people and families who are struggling with alcohol and/or drugs. Our services are free and confidential and can help support you to make the changes you want. We can also offer advice about reducing the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs. You don’t have to be dependent to use our services - they’re open to anyone experiencing difficulties.”
Across the city, a network of services offer support:
Stay tuned for the next Healthy Conversations focus, where we explore how drugs and alcohol interlink with other factors, including transport, safety and more.
