“UK adults are typically drinking less” – Drinkaware Report

The latest Drinkaware Monitor 2025 report reveals a continued shift in the UK’s drinking habits, with adults consuming alcohol less frequently and more moderately than in previous years. Commissioned annually by Drinkaware and conducted by YouGov, the nationally representative survey of over 7,000 UK adults shows that only 14% of respondents drink four or more times per week, down from 18% in 2018. Binge drinking has also declined, with 11% reporting weekly binge episodes compared to 15% in 2018. Additionally, 82% of drinkers now stay within the Chief Medical Officers’ low-risk drinking guidelines, up from 77% seven years ago.

While year-on-year changes from 2024 to 2025 are minimal, the report highlights the growing influence of social circles on drinking behavior. One in five UK drinkers knows someone actively trying to cut back, and more than half of these individuals say it has affected their own habits. Those with moderating peers are nearly twice as likely to have reduced their own alcohol intake in the past year.

Despite these positive trends, the report notes that risky drinkers—defined as those consuming 15 or more units per week—often perceive their behavior as normal. Over half of this group (57%) believe they are typical drinkers, and 42% see no need to change their habits. Health concerns remain the primary motivator for moderation, with 64% of moderating drinkers citing health reasons and 47% influenced by learning about alcohol-related health risks.

The report also identifies demographic differences in motivations. Younger adults aged 18–34 are more likely to moderate for financial reasons, while ethnic minority drinkers are more likely to do so to avoid intoxication. Drinkaware’s influence is notable, with 21% of UK adults reporting that the organization made them aware of alcohol’s health risks—second only to the NHS.

Drinkaware aims to use these insights to promote moderate drinking as a social norm and expand its impact across UK communities. The full report, including regional breakdowns and methodology, is available on Drinkaware’s official website.