Fresh Knowledge Launches Corporate Services Providing Alcohol Advice to Businesses

Leeds-based business Fresh Knowledge has launched a Corporate Support Service on Alcohol Issues aimed at local businesses. This expands the company from its successful base in the educational sector to include a new corporate service that offers guidance and support on alcohol-issues in the workplace.

The government estimates that alcohol abuse costs the nation £2 billion per annum.  The impact of 24 hour licensing is still being assessed, but as the nation drinks 100% more now than it did in 1950, this is a trend that is not going away. In the North of England, a high proportion of businesses operate in the legal, financial and media sectors.  In these sectors a great degree of individual pressure exists on a small number of high value personnel.  Drinking is often part of the process of relationship building.  It is exactly these types of business that alcohol issues can impact the most.

Alcohol issues are an increasing concern to such businesses for several key reasons.  Firstly, it is a legal requirement (1) that they have alcohol policies.  Secondly, companies are seeking ways to minimise the impact of alcohol related problems on the work place.  Issues can include impact on productivity, work-related accidents and the cost of covering time off work. Finally, many companies are looking to provide this type of support to staff as part of a Corporate Social Responsibility initiative.

Fresh Knowledge is expert at providing support to organisations relating to alcohol.  It will help companies develop policies which meet their legal responsibilities and their Corporate Social Responsibility agenda.  The new Corporate Service will help tackle issues such as developing management policies, initiating preventative strategies and providing group or individual guidance direct to employees about alcohol abuse.  Based on an initial interview and assessment of each client’s business, Fresh Knowledge will tailor an appropriate package of initiatives for each situation. This will range from creating appropriate alcohol policies and strategies, to providing on-going training and support aimed at preventing alcohol-related issues and addressing existing problems.

Sue Stone, Managing Director of Fresh Knowledge commented.  “Businesses are increasingly considering the impact of alcohol in the workplace.  It affects vital areas such as productivity, accident levels and relationships with colleagues and clients.  Fresh Knowledge aims to help businesses identify the expectations and pressures that exist regarding both social and business drinking.  By addressing these with clear policies and supportive initiatives, we can help businesses protect their interest and those of their employees”.

For further information regarding Fresh Knowledge, please contact Sue Stone on 01937 579777 or visit www.freshknowledge.co.uk.