An important element of the policy is the responsibility to inform and educate members of the community on substance -related issues. It will encourage individuals experiencing problems to seek help and will refer them to internal or external sources of help, as necessary. A list of sources of help is provided at the end of this document. The University seeks to adopt a supportive and sympathetic approach to any member of staff who develops problems as a result of alcohol or drug use. Similarly Heads of Department and others with line management responsibility are encouraged to be alert to possible problems and to take a constructive approach if problems do emerge.
Trade unions can also offer support to their members.
Absence from work due to treatment for alcohol problems will be treated as sick leave. Consent will be sought before breaking confidentiality, except in certain very exceptional circumstances, such as risk of serious harm to oneself or to others. Non-confidential and generalised information will be used to assist in developing and improving preventative and remedial measures. The approach which the University adopts to instances of alcohol or drug misuse will be governed by whether or not there is an underlying addiction problem. Where there is such a problem, the University will offer support and help to the member of staff whilst ensuring that they understand the possible consequences at work of continued substance misuse.