Alcohol minimum unit pricing and people experiencing homelessness: a qualitative study of stakeholders' perspectives and experiences

Elena Dimova, Heather Strachan, Sarah Johnsen, Carol Emslie, Martin Whiteford, Robert Rush, Iain Smith, Tim Stockwell, Anne Whittaker, Lawrie Elliott

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Citations (Scopus)
184 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Introduction
Minimum unit pricing (MUP) may reduce harmful drinking in the general population, but there is little evidence regarding its impact on marginalised groups. Our study is the first to explore the perceptions of MUP among stakeholders working with people experiencing homelessness following its introduction in Scotland in May 2018.

Methods
Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 41 professional stakeholders from statutory and third sector organisations across Scotland. We explored their views on MUP and its impact on people experiencing homelessness, service provision and implications for policy. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results
Participants suggested that the introduction of MUP in Scotland had negligible if any discernible impact on people experiencing homelessness and services that support them. Most service providers felt insufficiently informed about MUP prior to its implementation. Participants reported that where consequences for these populations were evident, they were primarily anticipated although some groups were negatively affected. People experiencing homelessness have complex needs in addition to alcohol addiction, and changes in the way services work need to be considered in future MUP-related discussions.

Discussion and Conclusions
This study suggests that despite initial concerns about potential unintended consequences of MUP, many of these did not materialise to the levels anticipated. As a population-level health policy, MUP is likely to have little beneficial impact on people experiencing homelessness without the provision of support to address their alcohol use and complex needs. The additional needs of certain groups (e.g., people with no recourse to public funds) need to be considered.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)81-93
Number of pages13
JournalDrug and Alcohol Review
Volume42
Issue number1
Early online date28 Sept 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2023

Keywords

  • alcohol
  • health policy
  • homeless people
  • minimum unit pricing
  • Scotland

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Health(social science)
  • Medicine (miscellaneous)

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