Residents across Somerset are being invited to take part in a new survey to help improve how alcohol support is offered locally, particularly for those who may benefit from help but are not currently accessing services.
Somerset Council is working with Somerset Drug and Alcohol Service (SDAS), delivered by Turning Point, to better understand the real-life reasons why people do not come forward for support.
The insights gathered will directly shape how services are designed, communicated and delivered in the future.
The survey can be completed by anyone aged 18 and over living in Somerset, whether reflecting on their own drinking or the experiences of someone they know, such as a friend, family member or someone they support.
Councillor Graham Oakes, Lead Member for Public Health, Climate Change and Environment at Somerset Council, said:
“Not everyone who could benefit from support for alcohol use feels able to come forward, and that is something we want to understand better.
“This survey is an opportunity for people to share their experiences honestly and anonymously, whether that is about their own drinking or someone close to them.
“By listening to those real experiences, we can shape services, so they are easier to access, more relevant to people’s lives and available at the right time.
“It only takes a few minutes to take part, but the insight it provides could make a real difference to how we support people across Somerset.”
Small step, big impact
Some people who could benefit from support never seek it. This survey is designed to make it easier to share those experiences in a simple, low-pressure way.
It takes just a few minutes to complete, and every response helps build a clearer picture of what gets in the way, whether that is awareness, stigma, timing or something else entirely.
Your voice matters, even if it’s not about you
Friends, family members and carers often see things others do not. By including their perspectives, the survey aims to uncover hidden barriers and missed opportunities to support people earlier.
Completely anonymous and confidential
All responses are fully anonymous and confidential. No one can be identified from the information provided, and participants can answer honestly without concern.
Shaping support that works for real lives
The findings will help us understand what gets in the way of people accessing alcohol support in Somerset, and what would make it easier to take that first step.
By listening to people’s experiences, services and communications can adapt to reach people in ways that work for them, address practical barriers (like timing, location or confidence about what to expect), and challenge misconceptions or stigma that can stop people seeking help.
Take part today
If you or someone you know has ever struggled with alcohol, or even just questioned your relationship with it, your insight could help make support easier to access for others. You can find the survey here: Somerset Alcohol Survey.
If you have would like to speak to someone about yours or someone else’s alcohol use, you can contact:
Website: Somerset Drugs and Alcohol Service, www.turning-point.co.uk/services/sdas
Telephone: 0300 303 8788
