Health & Fitness

East Greenwich Strides To Be A 'Recovery-Friendly Workplace'

The town will implement programs to support workers who are recovering from substance and alcohol addiction.

The town will implement programs to support workers who are recovering from substance and alcohol addiction.
The town will implement programs to support workers who are recovering from substance and alcohol addiction. (Rachel Nunes/Patch)

EAST GREENWICH, RI —East Greenwich is seeking to foster a safe and recovery-friendly environment for those recovering from substance and alcohol addiction as a Recovery Friendly Workplace community.

RFWs support their employee communities by recognizing recovery from substance-use disorder as a strength and by being willing to work intentionally with people in recovery. The goal is to promote recovery and eliminate barriers for those impacted by addiction.

"This support will provide workplaces with information and resources to promote health, well-being, and recovery for themselves and their family members," the town said. "Workplaces that implement evidence-based health and safety programming retain a healthier, more productive and more motivated workforce."

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Employees are educated on alcohol, tobacco and other drug policies upon hire, and annually thereafter, with trainings related to substance misuse, behavioral health and addiction that are tailored to the company's needs.

"By creating a recovery-friendly environment, employers send a strong message to their communities that they understand the importance of a solution-focused approach by addressing addiction and behavioral health head-on," the town said.

Find out what's happening in East Greenwichfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

For more information, contact East Greenwich of Substance Abuse Education Bob Houghtaling at 401-230-2246.

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