The Trust and its members of staff recognise the need to ensure that at all times we have a highly competent workforce capable of providing the best possible education experience to its children.
The Trust wishes to create and support a healthy and efficient working environment, not only through its obligation to comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974, and the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1971, but also through a supportive and rehabilitative approach towards alcohol, drugs and substance abuse problems. Alcohol, drug and substance abuse problems, which may or may not result in absence from work, not only have a significant effect on the member of staff, but can also impact the operating capability of the individual schools, the safety of its staff and students, and on the wellbeing of the individual member of staff.
Members of staff must arrive at work free from the effects of alcohol, drugs or substances, and the consumption of alcohol or misuse of drugs or substances is forbidden during working hours.
How is Alcohol and Drugs misuse defined?
Alcohol, drugs and substance abuse is defined as "the intermittent or continual use of alcohol or substances which causes detriment to the member of staff's health, social functioning or work performance, and which affects efficiency, productivity, safety, attendance, timekeeping or conduct in the workplace".
Drugs and substances are defined as illegal drugs, prescribed and non-prescribed medication, and solvents. Substances covered are those that come under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.
If you think a colleague has a problem
Colleagues are encouraged to address the issue directly and not to cover up for colleagues with an alcohol, drugs or substance abuse problem, as non-action represents a false sense of loyalty and may in the long term impact on the colleague as well as other members of staff. The first approach should normally be for colleagues to encourage the member of staff to recognise their problem and to seek advice either through their GP or the agencies listed below.
If this fails, colleagues are encouraged to alert the Line Manager to the situation so that more formal support may be provided within the Trust's procedures at an early stage.
If you encounter anyone drinking alcohol or taking drugs on site you should inform your Line Manager and/or HR immediately.