Ayrshire Council on Alcohol (ACA) staff are trained counsellors to professional standards who have a specialist knowledge of alcohol related issues. A free confidential service is available to those aged over 16 years in accessible venues throughout East & South Ayrshire. People can attend whether they wish to stop drinking or cut down the amount they are drinking. A family/carer support service is offered to those affected by someone else's drinking. Telephone counselling is also available.

The service is anchored within the community to enhance the availability and support to individuals, families and community based services.

ACA receives just under 400 new referrals per year with 72% attending their first appointment. Over 70% of those attending for alcohol counselling report reduced alcohol related harm and an increased engagement in social activities and positive lifestyle changes. The family/carer service users report that living with a drinker can be a frustrating and stressful situation and talking and being listened to helps ease anxiety, decreases stress and helps them develop improved coping strategies.