Impact of Minimum Unit Pricing on homeless and street drinkers, v 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assessing the Impact of Minimum Unit Pricing on Homeless and Street Drinkers: A qualitative study
IRAS ID
264798
Contact name
Lawrie Elliott
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Glasgow Caledonian University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 7 months, 31 days
Research summary
Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) increases the price of alcohol with the aim of reducing the amount people drink. It was introduced in Scotland in May 2018, after much opposition from the alcohol industry. Evidence suggests it may be effective, but the impact on very vulnerable people, specifically those who are homeless or drink on the streets, is unknown. These highly marginalised groups may be more susceptible to MUP given their limited income and propensity to consume cheap alcohol. For example, it could lead to less drinking, switching to drugs or both.
We will interview homeless and street drinkers to explore how MUP has affected their drinking, health and other aspects of their life (e.g. involvement in crime, begging, relationships with family/friends). We will also interview professionals to explore their views on how MUP has affected vulnerable drinkers and the services they provide to this population. The Scottish Government is legally bound to review the policy after a five-year period and our research will be completed in time to contribute to its decision. Our research will also inform the public and other governments about the policy.REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
19/NS/0071
Date of REC Opinion
16 May 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion