Embracing Unity: The Benefits of Being a Recovery-Friendly Workspace
In a world that is constantly evolving, workplaces are redefining their cultures to create environments that support employee wellbeing and inclusivity.
One of the emerging trends is the establishment of recovery-friendly workspaces: places where individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorders find solace, understanding and encouragement. Unity Recovery Services takes pride in leading the charge towards a more compassionate and supportive work environment.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of being a recovery-friendly workspace and how, as an employer, you can take steps to become more recovery-friendly.
What is a Recovery-friendly workspace?
As defined by the Department of Labor (DOL), “recovery-friendly workplaces are characterized by the adoption of policies and practices that:
- Expand employment opportunities for people in or seeking recovery;
- Inform employees in recovery that they may have the right to reasonable accommodations and other protections that can help them keep their jobs;
- Reduce the risk of substance use and substance use disorder, including through education and steps to prevent injury in the workplace;
- Facilitate help-seeking among employees with substance use disorder;
and ensure access to needed services, including treatment, recovery support, and mutual aid.”
Supporting individuals in or seeking recovery requires a “whole-of-society” approach. This means that the private sector, public sector, health care sector, community organizations and families all have a role to play. There are a number of policies and programs in place to support employment for individuals in recovery, though more can be done to support awareness, implementation, and evaluation – and this is where partnering with your local recovery services organization can be a huge benefit to employers.
Benefits of Creating a Recovery-friendly workspace?
When employees feel that they are valued and that their contributions are recognized, they are more likely to be engaged with their work. As a result, these employees become more productive and motivated.
Other benefits of creating a recovery-friendly workplace, including:
- Improved employee wellness
- Increased employee retention
- Improved employee performance
- Demonstration of corporate social responsibility
- Improved access to talent
What Steps Can Employers Take to Be More Recovery-Friendly
In addition, there are a number of other ways that employers can take steps to build and maintain a recovery-friendly workplace:
- Gain knowledge and understanding of substance use disorder (SUDs);
- When hiring, if the interviewee reveals a history of SUD and/or that they are in recovery, recognize that no differently than disclosure of other medical conditions;
- Have wellness programs that promote and support employee health, work/life balance and wellbeing;
- Prevent malicious gossip;
- Do not provide alcohol at work events, or provide a variety of non-alcoholic options;
- and Encourage healthy after-hour activities in addition to or instead of happy hour.
Unity Recovery Services is here to support
Gain more insight about recovery-friendly workplaces in our video below.
“From not being capable of holding a job, to being clean and sober and having that pride and to see them grow and watch them shine and find a place in this world is so rewarding,” stated Mary D of Unity Recovery Services.
If you are looking for more information on creating a recovery-friendly workplace, please reach out to our team at [email protected].