The effects of overconsumption of alcohol and other substances are often felt in the workplace. It also means that the workplace can be a good place to help people identify problems and overcome them.

To support your employees you may wish to consider:

• Having clear policy in place that prioritises support for employees and their wellbeing. It should set expectations about what is acceptable, who an employee can go to if they have a problem and signpost to where they can get help – creating a culture where people know support is available and how to ask for it
• Including alcohol and substance use when designing your wellbeing programme and offerings
• Training line-managers about your alcohol, drug and substance use policies and procedures and how to deal with disclosure and signposting to support
• Promoting early identification of alcohol and substance use and seeking support, increasing the opportunity for positive treatment outcomes
• Focusing on prevention by regularly assessing workloads, stress levels and the working conditions of staff
• Ensuring any need for disciplinary action is coupled with a preventative and supportive approach to help employees get the help they need
• The implications for wellbeing, safety and inclusion when planning work events where alcohol is available
• Supporting rehabilitation by providing flexibility with time off for someone to get treatment or support relating to alcohol, drug or substance use

Some of the risk factors that increase the likelihood of alcohol and substance use related harm include:

• Shift work
• Poor working conditions
• Personal conflict and stress
• Heavy workloads
• Low job security or lack of control
• Changes or upheaval at work
• Drinking culture seen as normal at work

You have the right to intervene when conduct impacts the business, to uphold the values of the organisation and standards in the workplace. However, you also need to consider the wellbeing of staff, that the organisation owes its staff a duty of care, but to handle the situation with sensitivity.

Lost productivity due to alcohol use costs the UK economy more than £7 billion annually. Alcohol use is a large cause of early death and illness for individuals. After smoking, it is the largest risk factor for cancer and the biggest cause of liver disease.

There is no-one-size-fits-all approach, but putting in place a few key measures can make a huge difference to your workplace’s productivity, safety, and your employees’ wellbeing. Having robust arrangements in place to manage alcohol, drug and substance use in the workplace can significantly improve business performance and create a supportive culture ensuring the health and wellbeing of staff.

Drinking just a couple less units can help you find a healthier balance with your sleep patterns, mood and energy resulting in:

• Overall improved employee health
• Increased motivation
• Reduced anxiety and better mood
• Better sleep and increased energy
• Reduced weight
• Inspiring other healthy lifestyle changes
• Better relationships
• Saving money

All supporting increased productivity, engagement and focus befitting your business success.

At Wiltshire Council we are here to help you and your employees to develop a healthy workplace. Our team can provide support, answer your queries and signpost you to the latest information and guidance.

If you would like to make your workplace a healthier place to work, find out more or meet with us, please contact:

Call: 0300 0034566

[email protected]