Alcohol Ankle Tags Trialed

A new scheme has launched in the UK to help support rehabilitation for vulnerable alcohol addicts. Individuals who take part in the scheme must wear alcohol-tracking ankle tags which can show whether alcohol has been consumed by the individual wearing it.  

 

These ankle tags known as SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitor) were initially used as part of a voluntary scheme in a town in Lancashire in the UK. Individuals were offered voluntary use of the tags to monitor their drinking behaviour and show that they were rehabilitated and sober. Key workers now say the scheme should be rolled out across the UK. 

 

James Houghton is a recovery support worker and an advocate for the scheme. James said he has seen a consistently high success rate where the scheme has been running in Lancashire since 2017. "The SCRAM results are really very good," he said. "It's fantastic, it should be rolled out across the country."

 

It is currently only being used in London as part of compulsory court orders before assessing whether this should be rolled-out to the rest of the UK. 

 

The ankle device works by analysing the individual's sweat in order to identify traces of alcohol. The device is able to monitor the alcohol type and the amount of alcohol which has been consumed by the individual. The tags are worn for 90 days and they cannot be removed by the individual at any time. The tag can even record when they are tampered with.

 

The scheme can be particularly useful for parents who are facing family difficulties due to their own substance misuse. Where social services may have removed their children, this scheme can help them re-build their relationships and show willingness to change their lifestyle. These individuals can show that they are rehabilitated and prove that they can care for their children by completing the scheme successfully. 

 

A Local Government Association spokesman, said: "As part of its forthcoming Spending Review, the Government needs to ensure councils receive sustainable, long-term funding so that they can continue to deliver innovative treatment services."

 

Doncaster Crime Solicitors