The British Medical Association (BMA) has updated its guidance on alcohol and drug workplace policies. The new guidance now includes a section that reinforces the message that health professionals have a responsibility to challenge negative stereotypes. In addition, the update helps employers understand that people who have a history of alcohol problems and have successfully taken part in a treatment programme can still be successfully employed. One of the issues covered in the new chapter includes the use of “abstinence periods” and recommends that, instead of “abstinence periods,” the best guide is receiving and completing a course of treatment. This should be followed by training and then voluntary work or support to find work. The updated guide also offers advice on the application of post-offer health assessments.
