New unit aims to tackle blight of alcoholism

The new five-bed unit is within the recently refurbished Millview Court Ward at the Castle Hill Hospital site, Cottingham.

Normally people will go in the unit for a fortnight where they can observed as they withdraw from alcohol.

Consultant nurse Tom Phillips said: “The inpatient unit provides close supervision by trained clinical staff. This is imperative as alcohol withdrawal can trigger acute medical problems such as seizures or sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes.”

He said patients would all leave with a care plan – which might include seeing a specialist nurse, joining a support group, or taking relapse prevention medicine – as alcohol withdrawal without support had “limited” results.

The centre also plans to become involved in research.

Nearly a quarter of people in the East Riding are drinking more than recommended levels, with 6.8 per cent in the “higher risk” category and 17.8 per cent defined as “increasing risk” drinkers – men who drink over three to four units a day and women who drink over two to three units daily.