NTF Launches New Substance Misuse at Work Policy and Testing Scheme
The National Trainers Federation (NTF) is today launching a new substance misuse at work policy available to all members. The policy has been developed in conjunction with the National Association of Racing Staff (NARS) and can form part of the employee handbook along with other policies provided by the NTF. A support, education and testing package has also been agreed which provides a significant discount for members.
The aim of the new scheme is to ensure employers are providing a safe environment for their staff and horses, minimising any risk of cross contamination, whilst also providing support, education and advice on substance misuse for their employees.
After an extensive tender process, Positive Matters was identified as the exclusive supplier for the scheme. Their prevention first approach, combined with testing when appropriate, not only mitigates safety risks within the workplace, but supports the health and wellbeing of employees.
The package, which is heavily subsidised for NTF and TBA member organisations, includes support with implementing the policy, operating procedures with guidance to ensure fair and consistent application of the policy, substance misuse training for all staff, a program of drug and alcohol testing, support for anyone who is experiencing drug, alcohol or gambling dependency issues, an alternative to dismissal for staff who fail a drug or alcohol test (qualifying criteria applies), as well as on-going support from industry experts when required. The scheme is exclusively available to members of the NTF and Thoroughbred Breeders Association (TBA) and a more detailed breakdown of how it will work in practice is available HERE.
The NTF has worked closely with the TBA, NARS, and the Horseracing Industry People Board (HIPB) to deliver this scheme and we are grateful for their continued support. The NTF Council would especially like to thank the Trustees of The Racing Foundation who have generously agreed to fund a one-year pilot of the testing scheme.
NTF and TBA members can register their interest HERE and will receive a callback to assist with sign up. The policy is available now and the remainder of the package will be available for staff from Monday 12th May 2025. There is limited funding available, and it will be provided on a first come, first served basis.
NTF Chief Executive, Paul Johnson said: “We are delighted to have been able to agree this partnership with Positive Matters, who impressed us throughout the tender process. This will offer NTF members who wish to implement testing a full, ready to implement strategy, that is tailored specifically to our industry, at a significantly discounted cost thanks to the support of the Racing Foundation.
We firmly believe that this service can bring wide-ranging benefits to trainers and their staff, enhancing safety and wellbeing whilst reducing the risk of cross-contamination. We encourage NTF members to take advantage of the generous funding available and register their interest at the earliest opportunity.”
NARS Chief Executive and Horseracing Industry People Board member, George McGrath said: "Racing staff work in a high pressured and dangerous environment. Anything that can make the workplace safer is welcomed by NARS and its members. We are pleased that the agreed strategy prioritises prevention and support above testing and dismissal.”
Horseracing Industry People Board Chair, Julia Tyson said: “Working with our employers to create safe and supportive working environments is core to the delivery of the recently published Workforce Strategy for British racing. We are pleased to be able to work collaboratively with the NTF, TBA, NARS and their members to pilot this project which will contribute to achieving that aim, whilst supporting employers to ensure that risk is minimised, and support is in place for those who need it.”