A drug service user has both rights and responsibilities. The service provider has an obligation to make each of these explicit to the service user.

A service user has the right to

• Assessment of individual need (within a specified number of working days)
• Access to specialist services (within a maximum waiting time). And the right of immediate access on release from prison
• Full information about treatment options and informed involvement in making decisions concerning treatment
• An individual care plan and participation in the writing and reviewing of that care plan
• Respect fro privacy, dignity and confidentiality, and an explanation of any (exceptional) circumstances in which information will be divulged to others
• The development of service user agreement, specifying clearly the type of service to be delivered and the expected quality standards
• The development of advocacy
• An effective complaints system
• Information about self-help groups and user advocacy groups

A service user’s responsibilities to the service provider includes

• Observing “house rules” and behavioural rules, as defined by the service (e.g. not using alcohol or drugs
• Specific responsibilities within the framework of a care plan or treatment contract  (e.g. keeping appointment times and observing medication regimes)

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