Introduction

Policies relating to substance use have largely separated alcohol and drugs. This is due to the legality and social acceptability of alcohol and the illegality and social deviance associated with drug use.

Social work policy has done little to incorporate substance use in its national or local policy frameworks although there are signs that this is improving, a least on a local level. National social work policy tends to be addressed to particular client groups or issues.

This section on policy will highlight some key areas in relation to current alcohol, drug and social work policy, including key pieces of legislation. To explore policy issues in more detail see links below and further reading section on this website.

Alcohol policy | Drug policy | Relevant social work policy | Websites