Sister Demands Legal Change After Sister's Death Linked to Alcohol Delivery Apps
A grieving sister is campaigning for a ban on alcohol sales through delivery applications following the tragic death of her sibling, who reportedly spent between £1,000 and £1,500 each month on booze ordered via platforms like Just Eat, Deliveroo, and Uber Eats. Alexandria Hughes, aged 31, has launched a petition urging the government to implement safeguards or outright prohibit such sales to protect vulnerable individuals from accessing dangerous quantities of alcohol.
Tragic Discovery and Personal Struggle
Zoe Hughes, a 35-year-old mother of two from Lincoln, Lincolnshire, had battled alcoholism for several years as a coping mechanism for personal issues. She was found deceased at the bottom of her stairs on July 24, 2023, with her death recorded as misadventure. In the aftermath, Alexandria, an NHS cancer navigator, sorted through her sister's affairs and was shocked to uncover extensive monthly expenditures on alcohol through doorstep delivery services.
Alexandria stated that Zoe's addiction worsened due to the unchecked and convenient access to alcohol provided by these apps. She emphasized that while her sister underwent therapies and rehabilitation attempts, the easy availability of deliveries exacerbated her condition. Over a period of three to four years, Zoe's drinking escalated from dependency to full-blown alcoholism, with her spending peaking in the months leading up to her death.
Allegations of Privacy Violations and Exploitation
Further distressing discoveries were made on Zoe's mobile phone, where evidence suggested that delivery drivers had allegedly misused her contact information from orders to send unsolicited messages, gifts, and even love notes. Alexandria described this as a gross violation of privacy and dignity, exploiting her sister's vulnerabilities during her struggle with addiction.
The petition highlights that these platforms, while convenient, can become dangerous tools for those fighting addiction, especially without adequate monitoring systems in place. Alexandria pointed out that in traditional settings like pubs, intoxicated individuals are not served, yet delivery apps lack similar safeguards. She questioned why there is no option for individuals to declare themselves as alcoholics on these apps to block ads and offers, similar to measures available for gamblers.
Calls for Government Action and Industry Response
Alexandria's petition calls for either a complete ban on alcohol sales via delivery services or the introduction of strict regulations, including robust monitoring, age verification, and purchase limits. She reported receiving over 2,000 signatures and numerous messages of support since launching the campaign, indicating public concern over the issue.
In response, spokespersons from Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat outlined their existing safety measures. Uber Eats expressed condolences and noted partnerships with Drinkaware for alcohol safety, including sobriety checks and ID verification. Deliveroo emphasized adherence to licensing and age verification requirements, while Just Eat stated they have policies to ensure responsible delivery and can block accounts or addresses upon request. All companies indicated they investigate misconduct reports seriously.
Broader Context of Addiction and Support Gaps
Alexandria also highlighted broader systemic issues, noting a lack of support for addicts, with many unable to access funded rehabilitation places. She shared that Zoe's addiction was accompanied by mental health struggles, including bulimia and anorexia, underscoring the complex nature of such conditions. Despite her challenges, Zoe was remembered as a devoted and kind mother who cherished her children deeply.
The campaign aims to raise awareness and push for legislative changes to prevent similar tragedies, arguing that current practices fail to protect those most at risk from the perils of unchecked alcohol delivery.
