Coming to work free from substance abuse toolbox

Toolbox

Our policies, standards and other resources

We have more in-depth Group policies and standards covering different aspects of substance abuse and safety and health. You can find links to them here.

In addition, there may be specific policies and procedures that apply where you work. Your manager can tell you about these. If you are unsure then always ask your manager.

(Please note: some of our resources are only available to Serco employees. In this case, you’ll need to log in to MySerco to access them. If you have problems accessing them, please request a copy from your manager.)

People
One page statement defining Serco’s commitment to managing the lifecycle and wellbeing of colleagues.

SMS-GS-P1 Employee Lifecycle
Outlines Serco’s people policies, systems and processes that apply to us all whilst working for Serco.

SMS-GS-HSE1 Health Safety and Environment
Sets out Serco’s health, safety and environmental standards, systems and processes.

Definitions

Substance abuse involves excessive use, or a pattern of harmful use, of alcohol, drugs (illegal or legal) or other mind-altering substances.

At work it can lead to significant impairment of your ability to do your job and can make your presence dangerous to others. It can also cause you personal harm.

"Abuse" involves using a substance in a way that is not intended or recommended, or because you are using more than prescribed.

“Harmful use” is anything that causes significant impairment, such as failure to meet responsibilities, impaired control, risky or inappropriate behaviour and health and social issues.

If you're a manager

Ensure our policies on substance abuse and its consequences are clear to everyone and they understand the company will try to help those with a problem if they will also help themselves.
Look out for signs that a member of your team might be having substance abuse or addiction problems.
Create the trust and reassurance that will ensure colleagues report someone who they’re worried about, without feeling that they are ‘betraying’ or ‘denouncing’ them.
Where appropriate seek guidance on and support a programme of education and awareness on alcohol, drugs, and substance misuse.
Implement measures, including a programme of compulsory screening, in Serco Contracts where operations involving safety critical services and/or processes are undertaken.
Seek support to enable confidential counselling and support services to be offered to a colleague with an alcohol or drug dependency problem.