Addiction in the workplace is an often-overlooked issue that can impact employees’ well-being and overall organisational health. Recognising this growing concern, Triangle HR and Telford-based organisation A Better Tomorrow held a free interactive workshop at Weston Park on 10th April. The event offered crucial insights into workplace addiction, aiming to equip employers with the tools and understanding to foster employee support for addiction.

If you’re an employer or manager wondering how addiction issues can be tackled sensitively in professional settings, keep reading to learn key takeaways from this impactful workshop.

Why Focus on Workplace Addiction?

Addiction is not confined to personal life; its effects often bleed into professional environments. According to Nikki Hall, Managing Director of Triangle HR, recognising and addressing addiction is a responsibility that all employers should take seriously.

“Addiction is an issue that nearly everyone has some experience with, either personally or through someone they know,” she said, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive engagement.

The workshop emphasised that fostering a culture of employee support for addiction not only helps individuals but also strengthens workplace resilience, reduces turnover, and builds trust.

Learning from Those with Lived Experience

One of the unique aspects of the event was the inclusion of real-life stories from Scott Morgan and Martin Cantrill, CEO and COO of A Better Tomorrow. They shared their own journeys through addiction and recovery, offering deeply personal examples of the transformation that is possible when individuals feel supported.

Their organisation, A Better Tomorrow, has been a pillar of support in the Telford area since 2014. To date, they’ve provided critical services to over 3,700 individuals, helping them tackle not only addiction but also challenges tied to mental health and domestic abuse.

Insights Shared During the Event

During the 9.30 am to noon event, participants engaged in expert-led discussions and activities aiming to address various facets of workplace addiction. The workshop explored these key elements:

Early Identification of Addiction Warning Signs

One of the most impactful segments of the workshop focused on recognising the subtle, early signs of addiction. Employers were taught how to interpret behavioural patterns such as frequent absences, productivity dips, or drastic mood swings.

Proactive identification plays a major role in supporting employees at the right time, avoiding situations that may spiral out of control.

Strategies for Effective Intervention

Engaging with employees struggling with addiction can be tricky—but it’s essential. The workshop highlighted intervention strategies rooted in empathy and professionalism. These approaches are designed to encourage open communication and provide help without triggering defensiveness or stigma.

Navigating Legal and Ethical Considerations

Employers were also guided through the legal and ethical frameworks that govern how addiction-related workplace challenges should be handled. From privacy laws to anti-discrimination policies, understanding these principles ensures that companies remain compliant while supporting their employees.

Building a Supportive Workplace Culture

A workplace culture that promotes compassion can play a fundamental role in recovery. The event introduced best practices for creating this kind of environment. Suggestions included mentorship programmes, support networks, and regular mental health check-ins.

Key Tools for Tackling Workplace Addiction

The workshop’s participants left with tangible tools for addressing workplace addiction challenges. Some of the primary outcomes included gaining the ability to:

• Identify the early warning signs of substance use or addictive behaviours.
• Approach concerns with a combination of empathy and professionalism.
• Understand how to support employees while maintaining ethical compliance.
• Foster a workplace where employees feel safe and empowered to reach out for help.

Why Events Like This Matter

“Everyone in recovery remembers the critical moment they were offered support,” said Scott Morgan of A Better Tomorrow. “This workshop helps employers provide that moment.”

With addiction affecting such a large number of workplaces, initiatives like this workshop have the potential to create lasting positive change. Beyond contributing to individual employee recovery, businesses that prioritise employee support for addiction also report better workplace morale, reduced absenteeism, and higher productivity.

Continuing the Conversation

While the workshop concluded on April 10th, its lessons remain accessible. Triangle HR and A Better Tomorrow plan to host future events to continue addressing workplace addiction and other complex employee challenges.

For more resources or to join upcoming initiatives, keep in touch with Triangle HR and A Better Tomorrow. Together, we can create healthier, more resilient workplaces.

Source: dbrecoveresources