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The third Health and Social Wellbeing Survey¹ was conducted by Central Survey Unit, on behalf of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, between February 2005 and March 2006. The survey was carried out on a random sample of 5000 private addresses in Northern Ireland. The results presented are based on information from 4245 individuals.

Some key findings relation to alcohol are as follows;

• 78% people were current drinkers, 6% used to drink and 15% were lifetime abstainers.
• 83% of men and 74% of women were current drinkers.
• More young people than older people drink alcohol; 86% of 16-24 age group compared with 48% of the 75+ age group.
• In the last 12 months of those who reported drinking:
  • 50% had consumed beer, lager, stout or cider;
  • 50% had consumed wine/champagne;
  • 42% had consumed spirits;
  • 17% had consumed alcopops.
• Men were much more likely than to drink beer, lager, cider or stout.
• Women were more likely to drink wine or champagne.
• More men (23%) than women (15%) report drinking above their sensible weekly limit; 21 units for men, 14 units for women.
• Younger people are more likely to drink above recommended levels; 31% men and 34% women in the 16-24 age group compared to 8% of men and 6% of women the 75+ age group.

To download the statistical bulletin "Northern Ireland Health and Social Wellbeing Survey 2005/06" click here.

Reference

1. Department of Health Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS). Northern Ireland Health and Social Wellbeing Survey 2005/06. Belfast: Central Survey Unit (CSU), 2007.