Recovery Friendly Workplace Designation: What you need to know
- Barbara I
- Apr 25
- 2 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
We've attained the designation of a Recovery-Friendly Workplace!
In a significant effort to support individuals recovering from substance use disorders and help them rejoin the workforce, Ohio launched the Recovery Friendly Workplace designation initiative in August 2024. This program aims to create a work environment that is inclusive and supportive of employees striving to overcome addiction. By adopting policies that promote empathy and understanding, Ohio is showcasing how workplaces can greatly improve community health, and On Our Way Home is another example of this effort for our staff as we assist delivering peer recovery support services, including employment-readiness, in our community.
What is the Recovery Friendly Workplace Designation?
The Recovery Friendly Workplace designation formally recognizes businesses that demonstrate a commitment to fostering an inclusive atmosphere for employees in recovery. This initiative encourages employers to implement practical measures that offer support, understanding, and essential resources for individuals dealing with substance use challenges.
To obtain this designation, employers need to meet specific criteria. These may include:
Conducting educational programs about substance use disorders that can help all employees understand related challenges.
Offering flexible work options, such as remote work or adjusted hours, to accommodate employees’ recovery needs.
Building a supportive workplace culture where open conversations about recovery are encouraged.
Benefits for Employers
By participating in the Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative, employers not only support their communities but also unlock many advantages for their organizations. Research indicates that supportive workplaces can boost employee loyalty by 25 percent and significantly improve overall morale.
A recovery-friendly environment can also lead to:
Reduced absenteeism: Companies implementing these practices have reported absenteeism drop rates of up to 30 percent.
Lower turnover rates: Businesses focusing on employee wellness may see turnover reduced by 50 percent, saving recruitment and training costs.
This initiative fosters a compassionate workplace that values the health and well-being of all employees.
Incentives for Employers
The Substance Use Recovery and Workplace Safety Program offers reimbursement for developing and legally reviewing substance use policies, training employees on substance uuse and related policies, and training supervisors to manage employees in recovery. It also supports drug testing with recovery-friendly policies.
For businesses interested in obtaining the Recovery Friendly Workplace designation, the first step is to review the necessary criteria provided by the initiative. Engaging with local recovery organizations is also a valuable approach. Seeking training for management on substance use challenges helps create awareness and understanding.
A Step Forward for the Community
The Recovery Friendly Workplace designation initiative signifies an important advance toward inclusivity and compassion in the labor market. By highlighting the importance of supporting employees in recovery, Ohio is cultivating a landscape where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally.
As more companies adopt these practices, they play a critical role in breaking the stigma associated with substance use disorders. The positive effects of this commitment extend beyond the workplace, contributing to the development of recovery-friendly communities across the state.
Through integrating recovery-friendly principles into workplace cultures, Ohio is setting a powerful precedent for others, demonstrating how supportive practices can lead to healthier workplaces and improved community well-being. Here at On Our Way Home we continue advocating for a healthier community!
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