THE number of alcohol-related deaths in East Lothian has decreased.

National Records of Scotland issued annual statistics which showed a slight drop in East Lothian for 2023 compared to the previous year.

In 2022, 19 deaths were recorded as alcohol-related deaths; the figure dropped to 16 the following year.

The figures were released just a matter of weeks after it was revealed that East Lothian had seen its highest ever number of drug deaths.

In 2023, 20 people died from drug-related deaths – the highest ever figure.

READ MORE: Drug deaths in East Lothian reach highest number on record

Paul McLennan, MSP for East Lothian, said: “My deepest condolences are with all those in East Lothian who have lost a loved one to alcohol. 

"While it's reassuring to see the number of lives lost reducing in our county, any alcohol-related death is a tragic loss of life. 

“The Scottish Government is determined to do all it can to reduce alcohol-related harm and continues to treat it as an equal priority with drugs as a public health emergency."

Douglas Alexander, Lothian East MP, echoed the comments.

He said: “As with drug deaths, every alcohol-related death is a tragedy that deeply impacts the lives of the family and friends who have lost someone.

“While the reduction in the number of deaths here in East Lothian compared with the previous year is clearly welcome, there is no doubt the harm caused by alcohol remains a significant problem.

“This issue requires a multi-agency approach and I commend East Lothian Council, the NHS and all the local charities and other groups that are working to provide support to those affected here.”

While Martin Whitfield, South Scotland MSP, added: “While I welcome the reduced number of alcohol-related deaths in East Lothian, the Scotland-wide picture is a national scandal, with alcohol deaths at a 15-year high.

“This tragedy is a damning indictment of the SNP’s record of failure in government and its past cuts to drug and alcohol services.

“There can be no excuse for inaction when lives are on the line – the SNP Government must set out a comprehensive plan to tackle the root causes of this public health crisis and ensure drug and alcohol services are able to offer people the lifesaving support they need.”

A spokesperson for East Lothian Council told the Courier that there was help out there for people.

They said: “Each one of these deaths represents a tragic loss of life and our condolences go out to the families and friends involved.

“Reaching people affected by their alcohol use can be challenging, as they often lead isolated lives and face a number of related issues such as poor health, social isolation, mental health issues and poverty. 

“However, help is available to people in East Lothian through East Lothian’s Substance Use Service and partners Mid and East Lothian Drugs (MELD). 

“Further support is available through Edinburgh and Lothian Council on Alcohol (ELCA), providing a counselling service for individuals in Dunbar on Monday and the Esk Centre Thursday and Friday.

“In addition, Access to Industry (in conjunction with Midlothian and East Lothian Drugs and Alcohol Partnership (MELDAP)) offer assistance into adult education and employment through the MELDAP Recovery College.”

There is also the option of meeting peer support workers through peer group meetings and recovery cafes.

Meetings take place in Musselburgh, Dunbar, Haddington, Tranent and Prestonpans.

More information is available at Substance Use Support.