The World Health Organisation claims that “a large body of literature has found raising the price of alcohol to be effective in reducing harmful use of alcohol among drinkers”. Six years ago, the government increased the duty on super-strength lagers. The consumption of super-strength beer fell by a quarter as a result. But, because of resistance from cider manufacturers, the government did not extend the rise to super-strength ciders. They feel that street drinking schools will no longer congregate when these drinks aren't available. Super strength fears Figures compiled by outreach workers say London has 8,108 rough sleepers. Of these, 44% have an alcohol problem, and many consume super- strength drinks. The homeless charity Thames Reach estimates that 98% of its clients drink high-strength ciders and beers.

Emma Williamson, principal clinical psychologist with the south London and Maudsley NHS Trust, said homeless people were difficult to treat for alcohol addiction. “They really struggle to trust and form relationships and engage in services in a planned way,” she said.There's four people in this hostel we're sitting in who are about to die and it's directly because of super strength lager". With drug addictions there are substitutes available, such as methadone – but not with alcohol. This places significant demands on mental health services at a time when homelessness is on the rise. As many as one in 25 people is classed as homeless in the worst-affected areas of England, according to a survey for Shelter last week. Produced from dried apple pulp and corn syrup, white cider, which bears little resemblance to organic cider, is attractive not just to the homeless but also younger drinkers on a budget. So, for an extra 50 pence, you get an extra litre,” points out Martin, who quit the drinks after they gave him a loss of appetite and made him “moody”.

The three-litre bottle contains 24 units of alcohol – 10 units more than the recommended weekly amount for an adult. “I only buy it if I’ve got a little bit of money,” explains Zac, who is 42 and has been homeless since he was 15. Some days he will drink two or three bottles. “They give me such a headache. But if I’ve got money I’ll buy a normal drink.” David Poley, its Chief Executive says: "There's no reason really to suppose that these drinks don't have a market amongst responsible adult drinkers. An alternative solution – advocated by many addiction charities – has been to use increased pricing. The main popular super strength lagers at 9%, all brewed by major drinks companies, include Tennent's Super, Carlsberg Special Brew, Skol Super and Kestrel Super.

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Thames Reach's frontline services say they have considerable evidence of the rapid deterioration in health caused by super strength alcohol.