Estimating the costs and benefits of an alcohol treatment requirement

Fox, Chris, Albertson, Kevin, Williams, Karen and Ellison, Mark (2011) Estimating the costs and benefits of an alcohol treatment requirement. Drugs and Alcohol Today, 11 (3). pp. 147-155. ISSN 1745-9265

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Abstract

Purpose - This paper seeks to report on a project to estimate the costs and benefits of implementing an Alcohol Treatment Requirement (ATR) in Stockport. The work is designed to support the development of a Payment by Results (PbR) approach to funding. Design/methodology/approach - The paper summarises existing literature on the potential impacts associated with ATRs, broader alcohol treatment, relevant offender interventions and calculates the costs associated with negative outcomes. Findings - A model of the potential cost savings to the Criminal Justice System and the National Health Service is set out which suggests that an ATR would need to achieve a 12 per cent reduction in re-offending to break even. Originality/value - The methodology and findings will be of interest to drug and alcohol service providers and commissioners who are considering PbR