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More support needed for employers to hire addicts, says research

A review and research findings published today by the UK Drug Policy Commission (UKDPC) concludes that Government efforts to get drug users into jobs through welfare reform proposals announced recently may not work unless more radical steps are taken to support employers. The UKDPC research highlighted that:

Two thirds of employers surveyed would refuse to employ a former heroin or crack cocaine user, even if they were otherwise suitable for the job.

Up to 80% of those in drug treatment are out of work, yet employment can increase the chances of successful treatment.

Employers need practical support and perhaps even modest financial incentives to help bridge the gap between recovering drug users and the labour market.

The forthcoming Equality Bill may be an opportunity to tackle discrimination against former drug users and those who are impaired because of drug addiction.

Research for the UKDPC found that employers are concerned about recruiting someone if they have a history of drug problems or are taking prescribed medicine, such as methadone, for their addiction.

Employers identified the need for practical support and help to manage 'risks'. More radical measures such as incentives and legislation may also be needed to reduce the stigma and discrimination faced by recovering drug users trying to re-enter the labour market.

The report considers the range of barriers to work faced by problem drug users and how these can be overcome. It also criticises the lack of evidence of what works'.

Despite some promising practice, there are no evaluations to demonstrate effectiveness of national initiatives such as 'progress2work', the Government programme accessed by 13,000 recovering drug users in 2007/08 at a cost of £20 million.

John Varley, UKDPC President and Group Chief Executive of Barclays, said:

"This review suggests that, if we are going to make serious headway in reducing drug misuse, employers need to be prepared to consider hiring suitable candidates who are recovering from a history of drug problems. Employment is a key source of rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The UKDPC is committed to helping the Government, employers and the support agencies help those who are recovering from drug abuse back into work."

Jeremy Hardie, UKDPC Commissioner and former Chairman of WHSmith Group, said:

"Welfare sanctions and support alone are not enough to get recovering drug users into work. As unemployment levels rise, the problem of engaging employers with this group will become even more acute. There are some excellent programmes already in place where recovering drug users are getting work and employers are very happy with the results. However, more needs to be done to evaluate what works and apply it across the country."

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