CH171-Using Alcohol and Drugs (People Receiving Care) Policy
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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}
Using Alcohol and Drugs (People Receiving Care) Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide a clear framework for managing situations where individuals receiving care and support from {{org_field_name}} use alcohol or drugs, whether prescribed, over-the-counter, or recreational. The policy ensures the safety, dignity, rights, and wellbeing of individuals, other people we support, and staff. It balances person-centred care with safeguarding, risk management, and legal compliance. It supports Regulation 9 (Person-Centred Care), Regulation 12 (Safe Care and Treatment), Regulation 13 (Safeguarding from Abuse and Improper Treatment), and Regulation 17 (Good Governance) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all people supported by {{org_field_name}} who live in their own homes or supported accommodation. It covers the use of alcohol, prescribed medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illicit substances. It also applies to all staff, including support workers, registered professionals, and managers, who may observe or be affected by the use of such substances in the care environment. The policy outlines the responsibilities of staff and the rights and responsibilities of individuals we support.
3. Related Policies
This policy should be read in conjunction with:
- CH07 – Person-Centred Care Policy
- CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
- CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
- CH21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
- CH27 – Staff Supervision, Training and Development Policy
- CH30 – Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
- CH42 – Communication and Engagement with Service Users and Families Policy
4. Person-Centred Approach
{{org_field_name}} recognises that adults have the right to make choices about their lifestyle, including their use of alcohol and substances, provided these do not place them or others at risk. We treat all individuals with respect, non-judgement, and dignity. Any known or suspected substance use is discussed openly and compassionately as part of the care planning process. We work with the person, their family or advocate, and relevant professionals to understand the nature of use, risks, and impact on health and safety. The person’s wishes, capacity, and legal rights are always considered.
5. Risk Assessment and Care Planning
When alcohol or drug use is disclosed or identified, a detailed risk assessment is conducted. This includes evaluating the type and amount of substance used, frequency, impact on physical or mental health, potential for dependency, impact on medication, and any risks to staff or others. Risk assessments are reviewed regularly and whenever a change occurs. Individualised care plans are developed with the person to promote harm reduction, safe use, health education, and support for change where appropriate. If substance misuse affects the delivery of care, this is clearly documented, and a joint response with health or safeguarding professionals is considered.
6. Safe Administration of Medication
Where a person uses substances that may interact with prescribed medication, staff must consult with the GP or pharmacist to ensure safe practice. Under no circumstances should staff administer medication if the person is under the influence to a level that may result in harm unless there is explicit clinical direction. Medication refusal or misuse is recorded and reported in line with CH21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy. Any concerns about capacity to consent or safety are escalated promptly.
7. Alcohol Use in the Home
Where alcohol use is part of a person’s lifestyle and not causing harm or risk, it is acknowledged within the care plan. Staff will not assist in purchasing alcohol or administering it. Staff are not expected to be present while alcohol is being consumed unless essential for the person’s safety. Where alcohol consumption affects judgement, mobility, or the ability to receive care, support may need to be adjusted temporarily to protect staff and others. Staff must document any such decisions and notify the Registered Manager where support is refused or delayed due to intoxication.
8. Illicit Substance Use and Safeguarding
Illicit drug use, drug dealing, or substance misuse that places the person or others at risk must be treated as a safeguarding concern and reported immediately to the Registered Manager and to {{org_field_local_authority_authority_name}} under safeguarding procedures. If staff suspect that a person is under the influence of illegal substances or that substances are being stored in unsafe or inappropriate conditions, they must not confront the person but record and escalate concerns. The safety of staff is paramount. No staff member is required to remain in a home where they feel unsafe due to substance use or associated behaviour.
9. Supporting Behaviour Change
Where a person expresses a desire to reduce or stop their substance use, staff must support them in accessing appropriate services. This may include referrals to drug and alcohol teams, mental health services, GPs, or counselling. Care plans are adjusted to reflect new goals and progress is monitored compassionately. Staff encourage but do not pressure individuals. Harm reduction strategies, such as safe storage of substances, health promotion, and regular reviews, are embedded in care planning.
10. Staff Conduct and Boundaries
Staff must never bring alcohol or illicit substances into the work environment or use them while on duty. Staff must not accept offers of alcohol or substances from individuals being supported. Where there is a suspicion of staff involvement in inappropriate activity related to substance use, this is treated as a disciplinary matter in line with CH28 – Staff Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy and CH31 – Disciplinary and Grievance Policy. Staff are encouraged to seek advice from their line manager or the Registered Manager if they are unsure how to manage a situation safely.
11. Working with Professionals and Partners
{{org_field_name}} works collaboratively with external professionals including GPs, pharmacists, substance misuse services, mental health teams, and safeguarding bodies to ensure a joined-up approach to care. We facilitate multidisciplinary meetings where needed to plan risk management and coordinate interventions. Information is shared with consent, or without consent where required under safeguarding or public protection law. We encourage open dialogue that supports the rights and wellbeing of the individual while ensuring the safety of others.
12. Documentation and Confidentiality
All disclosures, concerns, incidents, and changes relating to substance use must be accurately documented in the individual’s care record. Confidentiality is respected at all times, in line with CH34 – Confidentiality and Data Protection Policy. However, information may be shared if there is a safeguarding risk, significant health concern, or a need to prevent harm to others. Records are reviewed regularly to ensure accuracy and appropriate risk management.
13. Training and Awareness
Staff receive training on substance use, harm reduction, risk assessment, mental capacity, and safeguarding. This includes recognising signs of misuse, responding professionally, and understanding how substance use may relate to trauma, mental health, or social isolation. Refresher training is delivered annually or in response to policy updates or emerging issues. Staff supervision sessions provide an opportunity to discuss complex cases, share good practice, and reflect on challenges.
14. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner in response to legislative updates, CQC guidance, or significant incidents involving substance use. The review will be led by the Registered Manager with input from staff, safeguarding leads, and feedback from the people we support. Updates will be communicated to all staff and reflected in relevant care planning and training materials.
Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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