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Problem drug users' experiences of employment and the benefit system
- Authors:
- BAULD Linda, et al
- Publisher:
- Great Britain. Department for Work and Pensions
- Publication year:
- 2010
- Pagination:
- 120p., bibliog.
- Place of publication:
- London
This report details findings from research exploring the experiences of problem drug users (PDUs) in relation to claiming benefit, looking for and being in employment, and dealing with Jobcentre Plus. The research involves two components: an international literature review, and in-depth interviews with drug users and professionals working in the field of drug misuse. The main findings were that Problem drug users' form an extremely marginalised group who face significant and multiple disadvantage in the labour market. Interviewees commonly had a long history of drug misuse; most were using multiple drugs as well as alcohol. All had some experience of substance misuse treatment and for the majority this was not their first time in treatment. Interviewees often had multiple problems in addition to their drug use – most commonly in the areas of housing, mental and physical health, and skills and education. Most interviewees were on benefits and only a few were in employment. However, barriers to claiming benefit included lack of knowledge and advice, difficulties filling in forms and attending appointments, and the feeling that PDUs are stigmatised by Jobcentre Plus staff.