IngentaConnect Drugs and employment: Issues and interventions

Author: Mitchell-Lowe, Claire

Source: Journal of Occupational Psychology, Employment and Disability, Volume 10, Number 2, Autumn 2008 , pp. 105-113(9)

Publisher: DWP Occupational & Health Psychology Services

Abstract:

The National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse (2008) estimates that over 3.7 million people in England and Wales will use at least one illicit drug every year. However, only a small minority of around 332,000 users develop addiction which defines them as a 'problem' or 'high harm' drug user. Typically, these individuals have high use of National Health Service (NHS) and welfare benefit services, coupled with very low return to work rates (Godfrey, Stewart & Gossop, 2004). This article discusses a number of current issues surrounding substance misuse, specifically: existing provision to help substance misusers, and the case for ensuring that future provision be modelled on the concept of work first. In addition, two possible labour market interventions are suggested: the intermediate labour market model, which offers an opportunity for participants to undertake community work for a wage on a temporary contact; and social enterprise, which embraces a business model with a social conscience, whereby real businesses can employ those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

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