Hospitals are more than bricks and mortar: they are a part of the local community, delivering expert care far beyond hospital walls. Everyone should be supported to be well, and have access to high-quality care when they are ill.

Alcohol dependence is common among patients attending acute hospitals but doctors in these settings are often inexperienced at assessing dependence.

This guideline covers identifying, assessing and managing alcohol-use disorders (harmful drinking and alcohol dependence) in adults and young people aged 10–17 years.