As millions prepare for a fresh start in the New Year, Alcohol Change UK is ramping up support for its annual Dry January® campaign, announcing its first-ever headline partner, BetterHelp, and a lineup of official sponsors that include popular no- and low-alcohol brands like Lucky Saint, Lyres, DASH Water, and TRIP Drinks. With a growing trend of alcohol-free resolutions, Dry January® offers an evidence-backed way to reset health habits after the festive season.
The appeal of Dry January® has surged in recent years, with participants in the UK doubling from 4.2 million in 2019 to an impressive 8.5 million in 2024. Alcohol Change UK’s data underscores that those who participate using the campaign’s tools and resources—such as the Try Dry® app, daily coaching emails, and peer-support community—are twice as likely to succeed in staying alcohol-free for the month compared to those who go it alone.
The Benefits: From Brighter Skin to Better Health
The visible perks of Dry January® are evident in clearer skin, better sleep, a fuller wallet, and fresher mornings. Yet, according to research from the Royal Free Hospital, the true health gains extend well beyond the surface: a month without alcohol can lower blood pressure, reduce diabetes risk, lower cholesterol, and even decrease levels of cancer-related proteins in the blood. These benefits come at a time when alcohol-related health concerns are rising, with alcohol linked to over 60 serious health conditions, including liver disease, hypertension, depression, and multiple cancers.
Beyond physical improvements, Alcohol Change UK’s long-term findings indicate that over 70% of Dry January® participants continue drinking less six months later. This lasting change is attributed to the campaign’s emphasis on developing healthier relationships with alcohol, helping people see they don’t need alcohol to socialise, relax, or have fun.
Empowering a New Approach to Social Connection
For many, the social aspect of drinking is key, but as Lucky Saint founder Luke Boase explains, “The greatest reward of drinking is the social connection, not the alcohol. That doesn’t change in January—people still want to socialise, have fun, and enjoy a beer with their family and friends.” Through collaborations with brands like Lucky Saint, Alcohol Change UK aims to show that going alcohol-free doesn’t mean missing out on social experiences.
A Growing Movement with Professional Backing
Dr Richard Piper, CEO of Alcohol Change UK, notes the rising awareness of alcohol’s impact on health and quality of life. “The New Year offers all of us an opportunity to set our goals for the months ahead,” Piper said. “For many, this now includes a desire to improve our relationship with alcohol, especially given the wide-ranging health effects from sleepless nights and headaches to more serious concerns like high blood pressure and anxiety.”
With the backing of BetterHelp and a range of no-alcohol brands, Alcohol Change UK’s 2025 Dry January® campaign is set to support more participants than ever. With the Try Dry® app, coaching emails, and community resources, people can experience the health and lifestyle benefits of a month without alcohol—and potentially extend those gains throughout the year.
