Blackpool faces alarming rise in alcohol-related deaths as locals struggle with addiction and lack of support

For many, Blackpool is a place filled with fond childhood memories—melting ice cream on sunny beaches, donkey rides along the shore, and the thrill of the funfair

. Once known as the Lancashire Riviera, it was a favorite holiday spot for families from all over the UK. However, in recent years, the town’s image has shifted.

Instead of being a lively tourist hotspot, Blackpool is now more often associated with social struggles, economic decline, and growing health concerns.

And now, new statistics have revealed that it has the highest levels of alcohol-related deaths in all of England.

Startling Statistics on Alcohol-Related Deaths

According to the latest figures from the Department of Health and Social Care, Blackpool has an alarming rate of 76 alcohol-related deaths per 100,000 people—almost double the national average of 40. The issue isn’t isolated to Blackpool alone.

The five worst areas for alcohol-related deaths are all in the north of England.

South Tyneside follows with 66 deaths per 100,000, Lincoln with 64, and Sunderland and Gateshead close behind at 63 and 62, respectively.

These numbers paint a troubling picture of alcohol dependency in northern communities, where social and economic factors contribute to the crisis.

A Community Feeling the Effects

Beyond the statistics, the impact of alcohol abuse is evident in the daily lives of Blackpool residents.

Business owners, pensioners, and even families are feeling the strain.

Justin Connolly, a 51-year-old who runs a vintage sweet shop near Winter Gardens, shared his frustrations about the visible street drinking problem.

“They just hang around outside the bank all day.

It’s not a good look for the town. I’ve tried to say something before, but I got assaulted. Now, I just keep to myself.”

Pensioner Raymond Cotton, who has lived in Blackpool since the 1980s, echoed similar concerns. “It used to be a special place, but it’s really gone downhill.

I don’t like being out alone after dark. The groups of drinkers outside shops make it feel unsafe.”

Personal Stories from Those Struggling

Among those battling alcoholism is Simmi Thompson, a Blackpool mother who lost her home due to family difficulties.

Sitting outside a bookmaker’s shop with a can of beer in hand, she shared her struggles.

“I always loved working, but my life took a bad turn. I don’t have the support I need.

Yes, I drink—sometimes it’s the only way to get through the day.”

Simmi isn’t alone. A recent report from Blackpool Council found that over 4,300 people in the town are dependent on alcohol, with 86% of them not receiving treatment.

Many have also turned to gambling as an escape, only to find themselves trapped in a vicious cycle of addiction and debt.

One anonymous local who became addicted to gambling said, “You hit rock bottom.

You get so deep in debt that you start thinking about ending it all.”

A Broader Crisis in the Town

Blackpool’s issues extend beyond alcoholism.

The town also has the lowest life expectancy for men in the UK, according to the Office for National Statistics.

The decline of the tourism industry, an oversupply of guesthouses turned into low-quality housing, and limited job opportunities have all contributed to the struggles residents face.

Many find solace in alcohol or gambling, which only worsens their circumstances.

Citizens Advice Blackpool has reported a 28% increase in gambling-related harm among young people under 25.

Between 2019 and 2022, the number of adults experiencing gambling-related harm doubled.

They estimate that around a quarter of those struggling with debt have been affected by gambling in some way.

The Bigger Picture

While Blackpool holds the grim title of the worst place in England for alcohol-related deaths, it is not alone in its battle.

Other northern towns are also grappling with similar issues, highlighting a regional crisis that needs urgent attention.

Without significant intervention—whether through improved mental health services, addiction treatment programs, or economic revitalization—Blackpool and towns like it may continue to spiral downward.

For those who still cherish their memories of Blackpool, the hope remains that one day the town will reclaim its former glory.

But for now, the statistics serve as a sobering reminder of the deep-rooted challenges it faces.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn