Changes to the benefits system affecting drug and alcohol users

Significant upcoming changes to the benefits system mean that many individuals' benefits are likely to be undergoing change. This is likely to be stressful for clients. However, as a professional working with an alcohol or drug-using client whose benefits are changing, there are actions you can take to help them get the best from both drug or alcohol treatment and the benefits system.

The Directgov website has comprehensive information about changes to Incapacity Benefit and other illness or disablement allowances, as well as general benefits information. It could be helpful for both you and your client to look at some of this information together.

There is also information on this website (here)

If your client is in drug or alcohol treatment

As a drug or alcohol treatment worker, or if aware your client is in drug or alcohol treatment, try to ensure that their JobCentre Plus advisor is aware that they are in treatment.

If a client is re-assessed under the benefits changes, and this results in them being expected to look for work or prepare for work, being in drug or alcohol treatment can count as 'work-related activity'. This means that if a client declares they are in treatment they may not be expected to undertake the same degree of activity in terms of weekly job searches and applying for jobs as they otherwise would.

A client can speak to their JobCentre Plus advisor themselves or if you are their drug or alcohol keyworker, you can contact the advisor on their behalf using this form (link here soon).

There have also been some changes designed to make it easier for JobCentre Plus advisors to refer drug and alcohol users into treatment. Click here for more information.