Time for a refresh
Report from a conference held by SHAAP at RCPE, Queen Street, Edinburgh,
Wednesday 27 May 2026
Prepared by Jennifer Trueland
Summary and Recommendations
SHAAP brought together researchers, policymakers, clinicians and other
stakeholders at a pivotal point as the Scottish Government considers how to
reinvigorate its ABI programme. Participants were given the opportunity to hear
the latest research – including the findings of the recent Public Health Scotland
review – and discuss the way forward.
Recommendations
- Refresh: Move towards a relaunch of ABIs taking into account the changed
health and social care landscape across Scotland, and tapping into digital
opportunities; - Revitalise: A thoughtful ABI programme for today should involve a broader ‘family of conversations’ about alcohol that are holistic, non-stigmatising, person-centred and trauma-informed;
- Expand and mainstream: broaden the settings where ABIs are delivered and develop targets that focus on outcomes and help maintain momentum;
- Simplify: an ABI programme should be flexible and focused, using screening, stratifying into ‘no problem’ (no ABI required), ‘small problem’ (where an ABI might help), and ‘big problem’ (referral on to other services or support);
- Invest: a successful ABI programme will require investment in training, education (including at undergraduate level), resources, capacity and digital technologies;
- Strengthen: leadership, accountability and management buy-in is needed at national, local and service level.
Read the full report below.
Alcohol Brief Interventions – next steps for Scotland
June 2026