Drug and alcohol misuse at work: Guidance for people professionals
Practical advice for employers
Practical advice for employers
Drug and alcohol misuse are significant issues in society, meaning they’re also an issue for UK workplaces. As people professionals, you may at some point have to handle a situation where an employee is misusing alcohol and/or drugs. Whatever our personal views, it is important that we handle such cases professionally and with integrity – supporting people wherever we can and using external expertise and advice to ensure that there is a fair and unambiguous outcome.
The CIPD’s Managing drug and alcohol misuse at work survey found that only 33% of UK employers provide information for employees on sources of support for drug and alcohol related problems, and too few invest in manager capability to manage and support people who are struggling.
Employers must ensure they have a clear policy on substance misuse. The CIPD recommend that preventing drug and alcohol misuse forms part of their overall wellbeing offering to ensure any need for disciplinary action is coupled with a preventative and supportive approach to help employees get the help they need.
As a result, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you not only manage specific incidents, but also to provide the support needed by employees struggling with drug or alcohol problems, as well as the preventative actions they can take.
Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.
Sign in to accessNot a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!
A Northern Ireland summary of the CIPD Good Work Index 2024 survey report
A North of England summary of the CIPD Good Work Index 2024 survey report
Information on the legislation provides for a statutory sick pay scheme in Ireland
This guide offers advice on assessing skills, planning skills development and deploying and redeploying staff
Practical guidance on helping employees adapt and thrive when faced with workplace stress
Advice and tips on how HR professionals can support organisational and individual resilience
Guidance for employers on starting or improving an internship programme, including a checklist and model agreement