Alcohol, drugs & medication

The Netherlands often wrongly has the image that with alcohol and drugs more is allowed more than in other countries. This is not true! In the Netherlands, possessing and dealing (soft) drugs is prohibited! You are not even allowed by law to possess a soft drug, such as weed, even though it is sold in coffee shops. You can also be fined or imprisoned if you are caught with drugs in your possession in the Netherlands

In addition to what is not allowed in the Netherlands regarding alcohol and drugs, their use also has negative effects on your health, work and social life.

Zero tolerance policy at FHS

Flexible Human Services feels responsible for the well-being of its employees, both at work and at home. Information about alcohol, drugs and medicines plays an important role in this. This starts with basic rules about alcohol, drugs and medicines at work. We apply a zero tolerance policy. Possessing, using and being under the influence of alcohol and drugs during work is not permitted. Also be aware that alcohol and drugs remain in the body for longer and you must be sober in the workplace. For example, if you start working at 08:00, but have been drinking alcohol until 02:00, there is a very good chance that you will still be under the influence when you start working. This can have major consequences and even lead to dismissal by your employer FHS. So moderate your use of alcohol and drugs and stop in time! You are responsible for this yourself!

Living

If you also want housing through us, it is offered by Flexwonen.nu. They also have rules in the housing. The use of alcohol is allowed, as long as it is in moderation and you do not cause any nuisance.

In the area of soft and hard drugs, a zero tolerance policy applies to both use and possession. If this policy is violated, this can have major consequences and even result in losing your housing. So don't do it and take your own responsibility!

Medication

In the Netherlands it is not possible to simply buy all medicines, with the exception of mild painkillers and medicines for colds. These are freely available at the pharmacy or drugstore. In most cases you must first make an appointment with your doctor, who will assess you first. You can only collect the correct medicines from the pharmacy with a prescription from your doctor.

Do you have a chronic illness that requires medication? And are you coming to the Netherlands? If so, make sure you bring enough medication for the first three months. Flexible Human Services can always help you make an appointment with a GP. It is also possible for someone to accompany you to help as an interpreter. Read more about how it works in the Netherlands on the page about healthcare in the Netherlands.

Medications can also be dangerous to yourself or others in the workplace, for example, if they reduce your reaction speed. It is important to always adhere to the doctor's prescribed dosage and read the package leaflet carefully. If you are using medication that affects your awareness and/or reaction speed, we strongly advise you to inform your supervisor at work. This allows them to take it into account and keep the work environment safe!

Problems

Do you feel that your alcohol and/or drug use is problematic? Or are you addicted? Then seek help! It is very unwise to come to the Netherlands if you have problems. There is a good chance that the problems will become bigger in a strange and unknown country.

Are you already in the Netherlands and experiencing problems? There are several organizations in the Netherlands that can help you with this. Almost all assistance is provided through the GP. After a consultation, the GP can refer you to the appropriate organization. The social guidance team of Flexible Human Services can help you make an appointment and find the right help for you!

Read more about psychological help on this page.