HS315 Alcohol and other substances at the service

Licensing criterion and guidance for HS315 Alcohol and other substances at the service.

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Criterion HS314

All practicable steps are taken to ensure that children do not come into contact with any person on the premises who is under the influence of alcohol or any other substance that has a detrimental effect on their functioning or behaviour.

Guidance

How to show you are complying

You need to make sure that no one uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance when children are attending. 

Staff must follow the hospital’s policy on alcohol and other substances.

All staff should be familiar with this policy and know who to speak to if they have concerns about a possible breach.

It’s also important that staff think ahead about situations that might arise in a hospital setting and how to respond. For example, they should be prepared for what to do if a parent or caregiver affected by alcohol or other substances comes into the activity room.

When assessing whether you comply with HS315

Questions we are likely to ask

  • How do you make sure no-one uses, or is under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance during hours of operation?  

  • What would you do if someone arrived and was under the influence of, alcohol or any other substance during hours of operation?

Maintaining a safe and professional environment for children is essential. Anyone under the influence of alcohol or other substances may have impaired judgment or behaviour, which poses risks to children’s wellbeing and disrupts the quality of care.