Dry January: Boosting Work Reintegration and Wellbeing in the UK

‍Dry January: Boosting Work Reintegration and Wellbeing in the UK

Every January, millions of people across the UK choose to start the year with a clean slate by taking part in Dry January, a national alcohol‑free challenge run by Alcohol Change UK. What began in 2013 with just 4,000 participants has grown into a powerful wellbeing movement, with more than 200,000 people taking part in 2025 using Alcohol Change UK’s tools, and many more joining independently. The aim is simple: help people reset their relationship with alcohol and experience the physical, mental, and financial benefits of a month without drinking.
Learn more about the campaign at Alcohol Change UK’s Dry January page: https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january

Why Alcohol‑Free January Matters for Health and Work

Alcohol misuse affects far more than weekend plans, it can have a significant impact on physical health, mental wellbeing, and job performance. Excessive drinking is linked to long‑term health conditions such as liver disease and certain cancers, and it can contribute to poor mental health, strained relationships, and extended sickness absence.

In the workplace, the impact is substantial. The CIPD estimates that 3–5% of all workplace absence is attributable to alcohol use, and alcohol‑related absenteeism and presenteeism cost UK businesses an estimated £7.3 billion each year.

The encouraging news is that even a short break from alcohol can make a measurable difference. Research shows that 31 days alcohol‑free can lead to improvements such as lower blood pressure, better insulin resistance, weight loss, and enhanced overall health. Participants frequently report:

• 70% sleeping better
• 66% having more energy
• 67% experiencing improved concentration

These benefits are particularly valuable for individuals preparing to return to work. Better sleep, clearer thinking, and improved mood can significantly boost confidence and resilience, key ingredients for successful work reintegration.

How VR Professionals Can Support Clients

Vocational rehabilitation (VR) professionals are uniquely positioned to help clients harness the benefits of Dry January. Here’s how you can support them effectively.

1. Encourage Participation and Provide Motivation

If a client is considering cutting down on alcohol, Dry January offers a structured, community‑backed challenge with proven results. Around 1 in 5 UK drinkers now take part, making it a widely recognised and socially supported initiative.

Tools like the Try Dry app from Alcohol Change UK have been shown to double the chances of completing the month alcohol‑free. Sharing success stories and highlighting benefits, better sleep, improved mood, financial savings, can help clients feel motivated and supported.

2. Signpost Resources for Cravings and Healthy Habits

Clients may face cravings or social pressure during the month. Signposting high‑quality resources can help them build coping strategies.

• Alcohol Change UK’s “Coping with cravings” guide offers practical, evidence‑based tips:
  https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/blog-coping-with-cravings#:~:text=Think%20of%20the%20craving%20as,%2C%20literally%2C%20in%20your%20body.
• The NHS Better Health – Drink Less programme provides guidance on cutting down gradually and replacing drinking with healthier activities:
  https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/

Encourage clients to use January to build new routines, exercise, hobbies, better sleep habits, or alcohol‑free social activities, to support long‑term wellbeing.

3. Engage Employers in Wellbeing Initiatives

Workplaces play a crucial role in supporting sustained recovery and reintegration. Employers can:

• Promote a friendly Dry January challenge
• Share educational resources
• Organise alcohol‑free social events
• Highlight support options such as Employee Assistance Programmes or Mindful Employer resources
• Access Alcohol Change UK’s training on alcohol in the workplace

Creating a supportive environment benefits everyone. Teams often experience higher energy levels, improved performance, and fewer lost workdays when alcohol‑free initiatives are embraced.

Bottom Line

Dry January is more than a month without alcohol, it’s a catalyst for healthier habits, improved wellbeing, and renewed confidence. For VR professionals, it offers a valuable opportunity to support clients in building resilience and preparing for a successful return to work. By encouraging participation, providing practical tools, and engaging employers in wellbeing conversations, we help create a stronger, healthier foundation for long‑term employment success.

Useful UK Resources

• Alcohol Change UK – Dry January
  https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january
• Alcohol Change UK – Coping with Cravings
  https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/blog-coping-with-cravings#:~:text=Think%20of%20the%20craving%20as,%2C%20literally%2C%20in%20your%20body.
• NHS Better Health – Drink Less
  https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/
• Drinkline (Free, confidential helpline) – 0300 123 1110
  https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/advice-and-support/alcohol-support-services/support-lines
• Mindful Employer / Employee Assistance Programmes
  Employers can also explore Alcohol Change UK’s workplace training to better support staff during initiatives like Dry January.

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