‘Spin the bottle’ Report – Alcohol industry spreading misinformation about alcohol harm
Today’s Spin the Bottle report from the Institute of Alcohol Studies and SHAAP reveals how alcohol industry bodies misled the public and policymakers throughout 2024—downplaying rising harm, overstating their economic importance, and blocking effective health policies.
At Nacoa, we see the real-world impact: children growing up with parental alcohol problems are left out of the conversation entirely. While companies claim to be ‘part of the solution,’ children are living with fear, shame, and silence of the wider impacts of addiction and misuse.
When industry voices dominate the conversation—claiming things are ‘going in the right direction’—the real stories of children are silenced. These children are often scared, isolated, and unsure where to turn. The idea that the industry is ppart of the solution’ does nothing to change that.
Alcohol harm hasn’t gone away. It’s increasing—and children are among those suffering most. There is no provision made in the current ‘drug strategy’. The consequences are emotional, psychological, and often lifelong.
Supporting the campaign
We support IAS, SHAAP and others calling for:
- Health policies that put people—especially children—before profits
- Transparency and independence in policymaking, free from industry influence
- Greater recognition of the harm alcohol causes in families and communities
To the children affected: you matter. You are not alone. And we will continue to fight for a world where your voice is heard, and your wellbeing is prioritised over industry spin.
To read the report in full, go to Institute for Alcohol Studies.
Nacoa support
If you’re a child affected by a parent’s drinking, or if you know someone who is, Nacoa is here to help. Our free, confidential helpline is open to children, young people and adults of all ages.
You can call us on 0800 358 3456, email us, or reach out online. You are not alone—we are here to listen, to support, and to help you find hope.
