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DRINK & DRUGS NEWS :: Q&AYou ask the questions - you answer the questions. Please keep your answers coming, and feel free to email a new question. Thanks to this issue's respondents for their contributions. Question:Someone I know has been included on the shortlist for a job at
my agency. We have a strict 'clean' policy here, but I know this
person socially, and he is well-known for his drug-taking. Should
I advise my manager of the situation, or keep my nose out? [Rose,
Birmingham] Your replies...Rose The person you know has clearly put you in a difficult position. Your organisation has developed a policy to protect the vulnerable people in your care and, as a paid professional, you have a responsibility to preserve this. I was in a similar position some years ago and had to chose between my professional integrity and my popularity with others. Personally, I would contact the person and ask them if they were aware of the organisation's policy concerning the use of drugs by staff members. I would then gently ask them to take some responsibility within this, with the expectation that they would withdraw their application. If they were unwilling to do so, I would let them know that I am required to inform my line manager, and how I felt about this. I know how difficult it can be to follow through with this, but it's worth reminding yourself why this policy was put in situ in the first place and the responsibility we have as professionals to preserve the wellbeing of vulnerable people in our care. Equally, we need to ensure that we don't parallel and collude with the common rules often found in our client population, about 'grassing'. The cost is too great. I hope this goes well and the very best of luck. Nick Gully, director of addiction services, The Priory Hospital Roehampton
Dear Rose My heart goes out to you, yet there are two issues here: firstly, this person is a user; secondly, he's a social friend. So on the first point, I would feel I had no choice but to whistle-blow. Just think of the problems this person could bring to the agency - and more importantly, the harm he could bring to clients seeking help. On the second aspect, you state that you know him socially; so if this is the case, you as a professional will be doing your friend a caring favour for himself and keeping to the 'clean' policy the agency holds. I am sure this can be done confidentially to your manager without everyone knowing - and if this is the case, then your friend will never know that you have done him a favour. Being a professional is not easy when situations like this arise. Good luck in your chosen decision. Sean Rendell
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