A health services group is investing in support to tackle alcohol-related harm.

The new Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven clinical commissioning group (CCG) has joined with the Bradford District’s two other CCGs to put more than £1m into expanding the range of alcohol misuse services available.

NHS figures indicate 92,000 people drink at hazardous levels in the Bradford and Airedale area, around 17,000 of these at harmful levels.

Health chiefs says this data shows alcohol misuse continues to cause a range of problems, especially health problems, locally.

The extra investment from the CCGs will fund two alcohol clinical nurses at Airedale General Hospital, an additional nurse at Bradford Royal infirmary, four alcohol community intensive support workers, two Central and Eastern European workers, an accident and emergency specialist for Airedale Hospital, three assessment staff in Bradford plus a physical health nurse, and two additional primary care staff for Airedale.

Chief clinical officer designate for Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven CCG Dr Phil Pue said: “The new funding from the CCGs will boost the already excellent range of practical support and advice on offer across the district to people with alcohol problems.

“It’s important for people to be aware of the reality of alcohol-related harm and take steps to change their lifestyle, with specialist support if necessary.”

Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven CCG is made up of 17 GP practices, including practices in Ilkley, Addingham and Burley-in-Wharfedale, which are working to take over some of the responsibilities of primary care trusts (PCTs) from April 2013.

The CCG serves a population of around 155,781 in Wharfedale and Airedale, stretching from the Keighley area to Grassington and Settle areas, as well as Ilkley, Burley-in-Wharfedale and Addingham.

It is working to ensure local clinical staff have greater involvement in deciding what services should be provided for local people.

Bradford District residents can call (0845) 0508465 or visit bradfordrecoverysystem.org.uk for alcohol treatment, advice and information.