DRUG USERS AND WELFARE REFORM

Concerns that the threat of benefit sanctions for those who fail to
engage with drug treatment will not work as intended

Sir, The Department for Work and Pensions' White Paper on welfare
reform to improve access to employment, education and training for
drug users and provide increased support to tackle associated issues
such as housing and debt is to be welcomed.

However, we are concerned that the threat of benefit sanctions for
those who fail to engage with drug treatment will not work as
intended. It risks driving people away from claiming support and could
have knock-on effects on families and communities.

We also have concerns over the proposed sharing of information between
the criminal justice system and the DWP. This risks blurring the roles
of the agencies involved and is potentially a threat to civil
liberties and a breach of data protection laws. The right to privacy
and safeguarding sensitive information is paramount.

We urge the Government to take a step back from any proposals that
will jeopardise drug users' recovery and harm those who are already
vulnerable.

Deborah Cameron, Chief Executive, Addaction

Martin Barnes, Chief Executive, Drugscope

Sebastian Saville, Executive Director, Release