Legal News

Home Secretary Amber Rudd has launched the government’s new Drug Strategy to reduce illegal drug use – and increase the rate of individuals recovering from drug dependence.

Each year in the UK, drugs cost society £10.7 billion in policing, healthcare and crime – with drug fuelled theft alone costing £6bn a year.

Research shows that for every £1 spent on treatment, an estimated £2.50 is saved.

In 2015-2016, a total of 2.7 million – more than 8% – of 16-59-year-olds in England and Wales took illegal drugs.

This is a reduction from 10.5% a decade ago – but the government says new threats are emerging, including new psychoactive substances such as “spice”, image and performance enhancing drugs, “chemsex” drugs and misuse of prescribed medicines.

The new strategy confronts these threats and sets out new action to protect the most vulnerable, including the homeless, victims of domestic abuse and those with mental health issues.

The comprehensive new approach brings the police, health and local partners together to support those most at risk.

The strategy includes measures to reduce demand through deterrent work – including an expansion of the Alcohol and Drugs Education and Prevention Information Service for young people.

There will be a focus on restricting supply by pursuing a strong law enforcement response and dismantling trafficking networks.

Support recovery strategies include a new National Recovery Champion, who will be appointed to make sure adequate housing, employment and mental health services are available to help people turn their lives around.

An international strand is included in the strategy for the first time, setting out action to strengthen controls at UK borders, understand global trends and share intelligence.

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said:

“Since becoming Home Secretary, I have seen firsthand how drugs can destroy lives – I am determined to confront the scale of this issue and prevent drug misuse devastating our families and communities.

“This government has driven a tough law enforcement response in the UK and at our borders – but this must go hand-in-hand with prevention and recovery.

“This new strategy brings together police, health, community and global partners to clamp down on the illicit drug trade, safeguard the most vulnerable – and help those affected to turn their lives around.

“We must follow through with our commitment to work together towards a common goal – a society free from the harms caused by drugs.”

The Home Secretary will chair a new cross-government Drug Strategy Board, to drive action and ensure the strategy is delivered by all partners.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Drugs, Commander Simon Bray, added:

“Illicit drugs feature in so many types of harm and crime – they are frequently used as a commodity by organised criminals and gangs, often linked to violence and exploitation of the vulnerable.

“Drugs are the root cause behind countless burglaries, thefts and robberies – and are often associated with antisocial behaviour and public concern.”

Duncan Lewis Criminal Solicitors – Drugs Offences

Duncan Lewis Criminal Solicitors can advise at any stage of a charge involving drugs offences, including possession, supply, or manufacturing or distributing Class A and Class B drugs or psychoactive substances.

There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales – and a Duncan Lewis criminal defence solicitor can usually reach a police station for interview under caution within an hour.

For expert legal advice on all drugs offences, call Duncan Lewis criminal solicitors on 0333 772 0409.

For 24/7 help at a police station, call the Duncan Lewis Solicitors 24-Hour Emergency Helpline on 0333 772 0607.