17/12/15 New Psychoactive Substances The need to address problems associated with drug use is not a new phenomenon. Through the 1980’s there was a notable increase in the use of recreational drugs, not only cannabis but also the new ‘dance drugs’ such as ecstasy. Terrie Baverstock The 1980’s also brought new pressures on the Mark Kempster treatment system and Britain’s drug control policy, with a new epidemic of heroin use. Increasing public and political concern about the link between drug use and crime. The crime reduction dividend was the rationale behind the Government’s hugely increased investment in treatment. Up from £50m to £600m a year. Public Health England estimated that providing ready access to treatment for around 200,000 individuals – more than twice as many as in 2001 – prevents 4.9m crimes per year. During the 1990’s so ‐ called ‘herbal highs’ came on to The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 has been amended the market, promoted by a more ‘natural route’ to permanently to control NBOMe compounds as Class A intoxication. drugs. More recently, these newly emerging ‘legal highs’ are Ketamine has become a Class B having been previously emerging as a truly global phenomenon. classed as C. The number of NPS is increasing at a fast pace in Several others have been brought under control, Europe. including Khat which has been controlled Class C. Following consultations, the government introduced Temporary Banning Orders (TBO’s). 1
17/12/15 ‘Legal highs’ contain one or more chemical substances Not all NPS are ‘new’ – the new does not mean a new invention but could refer to a substance that has recently which produce similar effects to illegal drugs. been made available for recreational use. These new substances are not yet controlled under the Many new drugs appear on the illicit market and then Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. disappear, usually as a result of little demand. ‘Legal highs’ cannot be sold for human consumption so There is some evidence that the appeal of some NPS is they are often sold as incense, salts or plant food. sometimes linked to the poor quality of more established The term ‘legal highs’ is misleading ‐ just the fact that a illicit substances available on the black market. substance is sold as ‘legal’ does not mean it is safe. In particular, a reduction in the purity of ecstasy and cocaine was linked to the increased use of Mephedrone in the UK. ‘Legal Highs’ are sold online, in ‘headshops’ or sometimes alongside controlled substances on the illicit market. Reports also suggest that some legal high products (such as synthetic cannabinoid products) are being sold in a wide range of outlets, including corner shops, pubs and petrol stations. As compounds are controlled and substances banned, their new legal status does not always deter use. Most sales are then transferred to street dealers, with users reporting paying a higher price. 2
17/12/15 There has been a steep rise in the number of online ‘shops’ selling both ‘legal’ and ‘illegal’ products to European customers. 2010 ‐ 170 2011 – 314 2012 – 693 2013 – 651 The internet is also facilitating communication for people who use NPS and providing access to knowledge, expertise and logistics about these drugs. There are a number of sites and moderated discussion fora and blogs that are used to share information about newer compounds, feedback on the effects of drugs and harm reduction advice. PSYCHONAUTS One of the most common perceptions people have about NPS is in relation to how harmful they can be. This is not helped by the wide availability of substances – this implies that these products are tested, controlled and hence safe. At present there is not clear awareness around dosage, related risks and side effects. Some NPS are stronger than the illegal substances they mimic. For the inexperienced user this may increase their chances of getting unpleasant side effects. 3
17/12/15 There are several sources of data on the prevalence of While the number of different NPS detected is NPS/Club Drug use. increasing across Europe, it is important to keep things Crime Survey for England and Wales in perspective. Smaller surveys focussing on specific subgroups. We don’t have a complete picture of NPS prevalence, The use of NPS in the general population is low compared but use of these drugs is lower than more established to the use of traditional illicit drugs but that use of NPS is drugs such as cannabis and powder cocaine. higher in certain subgroups. However, reports suggest that NPS is higher in some subgroups such as clubbers and men who have sex with men (MSM) and is more prevalent is rural areas. How does this compare with Hertfordshire? Why? The survey aims to gather information on what NPS are being used in Hertfordshire. Where people acquire and take NPS, what psychological and physiological effects people experience after taking different NPS. Their understanding of the legalities and whether or not they know where they can get support. The survey has the potential to provide good, accurate The survey will be totally anonymous. information that we desperately lack. Open to all ages. It will provide health and education services, It has been designed by the Hertfordshire NPS Working Community Safety Partnerships, drug policy makers Group. and other key stakeholders with detailed information Available online and paper copies. about local prevalence. After the survey closes findings will be produced upon request. 4
17/12/15 There are positive signs that our approach is working: ◦ Over 2100 people, both professionals and young people have attended awareness sessions. ◦ The Hertfordshire Headshop Protocol. ◦ Red or Black – You Lose Campaign. ◦ The Hertfordshire Professional Information Network. ◦ New Licence Conditions for inclusion in Event Licences. We will work to ensure that localised information is Work with Emergency Departments and primary care made available at pubs, clubs and other environments services for people who need treatment. with a likelihood of use. Conduct a large scale survey to understand what NPS are bought and used locally, how, where and who by. Work with treatment providers to encourage the collection of data. Encourage those who may not consider themselves ‘drug users’ into treatment. Explore ways to work with Hertfordshire’s hospitals, A&E departments and ambulance service to ensure effective recording of data. 5
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