name changed in case
Started a new job recently and last week smelt alcohol on colleague's breath at work. Thought i was mistaken at first because we are in a particular profession that makes it a no-no. (vulnerable people).
Monday colleague turns up for work around 8am under the influence (slurring words, smelling of alcohol, dazed etc), boss inexplicably sends colleague with another colleague on pre-booked trip with said vulnerable people but sends home when returns from trip.
Since found out the colleague has a long term problem but been dry for a year.
Colleague returned to work and nothing has happened, colleague has resumed normal duties etc
Other colleagues and boss keep talking about duty of care and supporting colleague to access help (again).Using excuses like it might have been from night before, person has had a difficult time a few years back in personal life etc. But what about duty of care to our service users, colleagues etc?
It hits home personally as extended family member severely injured by drink driver when a pedestrian a few years ago.
I am appalled etc.
What can I do to support colleague but also protect others?