Alcohol and Substance Misuse Policy 2026-2029

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Responsibilities

5.1 Directors, Heads of Service and Senior Managers

Directors, Heads of Service and Senior Managers are responsible for:

  • Providing overall leadership and accountability for the effective implementation of this Policy.

  • Ensuring the Policy and supporting guidance are communicated, understood and applied consistently across their areas of responsibility.

  • Ensuring all cases of alcohol and substance misuse are managed fairly, sensitively and in line with Council procedures.

  • Commissioning additional support, advice or resources for managers where appropriate and practicable.

  • Ensuring managers receive adequate training, guidance and supervision to fulfil their responsibilities under this Policy.

5.2 Line Managers and Supervisors

All Line Managers and Supervisors are responsible for:

  • Managing alcohol and substance misuse issues in the workplace in accordance with this Policy and associated guidance.

  • Recognising potential indicators of alcohol or substance misuse and responding appropriately, sensitively and consistently.

  • Offering appropriate support and assistance to employees, including early intervention and referral to Occupational Health where required.

  • Ensuring employees are aware of the standards expected under this Policy and the consequences of non compliance.

  • Managing attendance, conduct and performance issues linked to alcohol or substance misuse in line with relevant HR policies and procedures.

  • Maintaining confidentiality and handling matters sensitively at all times.

5.3 All Employees, Casual Workers, Agency Workers, Contractors and Volunteers

All employees, casual workers, agency workers, contractors and volunteers have a responsibility to:

  • Attend work fit for duty and not be under the influence of alcohol or substances during working hours, including lunch breaks.

  • Comply with this Policy and all associated Council policies and procedures.

  • Refrain from the possession, use, or supply of illegal drugs on Council premises or while undertaking Council business.

  • Inform their manager where prescribed or over-the-counter medication may adversely affect their ability to work safely, particularly in safety sensitive or decision-making roles.

  • Cooperate with reasonable management actions where alcohol or substance misuse is suspected or identified, including referral to Occupational Health where appropriate.

  • Seek support at an early stage where alcohol or substance misuse may be affecting their health, wellbeing or work performance.

5.4 People, Digital and Policy

People, Digital and Policy are responsible for:

  • Promoting this Policy and monitoring its effectiveness across the Council.

  • Supporting a proactive approach to managing alcohol and substance misuse through the provision of timely professional advice.

  • Coordinating access to Occupational Health, Health and Safety, Learning and Development and HR support as required.

  • Providing accurate data, guidance and professional HR advice to support managers in the application of this Policy.

5.5 Occupational Health and Health and Safety

Occupational Health and Health and Safety will:

  • Provide specialist advice and support to managers and employees in relation to alcohol and substance misuse.

  • Support early identification, treatment, rehabilitation and reasonable workplace adjustments where appropriate.

  • Contribute to health promotion activities related to alcohol and substance misuse.

5.6 Learning and Development and Departmental Operational Training

Learning and Development and Departmental Operational Training will:

  • Contribute to training and awareness activities related to alcohol and substance misuse.

  • Ensure training records are maintained for Managers and Employees on alcohol and substance misuse training.

  • Implement suitable refresher training at defined intervals as required.

5.7 Elected Members

Elected Members have a personal responsibility to all staff and members of the public to uphold the values set out in this policy, promote good relations and challenge inappropriate behaviour where required. Elected Members are responsible for ensuring that they support positively, the principle of equality and diversity, in undertaking their public duties and follow the Code of Conduct for Elected Members and associated policies and procedures.