What is a Recovery Friendly Workplace?

“A “Recovery Friendly Workplace” (RFW) is a place of work in which the employer, in collaboration with employees, establishes, maintains, and continually enhances policies, practices, and a culture and work environment that are supportive of current and prospective employees in recovery from, or otherwise affected by, substance use disorders.”

National Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative and Global Recovery Initiatives Foundation

What are the benefits of being a Recovery Friendly Workplace?

• Increased talent attraction & retention

• Increased EAP utilization, employee health, and earlier interventions

• Increased productivity and customer loyalty

• Decreased workplace injuries and incidents

• Decreased absenteeism & presenteeism

• Decreased health care, disability, and workers compensation expenses
  

How much does it cost to become a certified Recovery Friendly Workplace?

There are currently no costs for employers to become certified Recovery Friendly Workplaces. Resources and assistance provided by VAMHAR is done so at no cost to employers. Support and guidance will be provided throughout the process of preparing for and attaining certification.

How long does it take to become a certified Recovery Friendly Workplace?

The timeline varies depending on a workplace’s starting point and pace at which it moves through the program, with a goal of submitting for certification 6 - 12 months after kickoff.

What’s included in the Recovery Friendly Workplace certification program?

• Live, in person, RFW trainings

• RFW example policies

• State-wide and local recovery resources

• Direct access to a RFW advisor

• Listing on VAMHAR’s RFW database

• Ongoing RFW support from VAMHAR

What is the difference between a Recovery Ready and a Recovery Friendly Workplace?

Recovery Ready and Recovery Friendly are synonymous, the two terms that can be used interchangeably.

How does an employer become a certified Recovery Friendly Workplace?

Becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace begins with filling out an online letter of interest. This will prompt a meeting with a VAMHAR RFW advisor who will guide you through the process of becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace.