UK universities are being encouraged to shift away from a zero-tolerance stance on drug use and instead focus on public health and harm reduction measures. A new report from Universities UK (UUK) outlines the importance of providing non-judgmental support, drug testing, and education for students who may need help with drug use.
Research shows that students are actually less likely to use drugs than those in the general population, with many expressing a desire to reduce their drug use. However, the fear of punishment, such as fines, suspensions, or expulsions, may deter students from seeking help.
Only a small percentage of students who have used drugs in the past year have asked for support from their institution, with many citing concerns about their university’s drug policy as a barrier. The tragic case of Jeni Larmour, who died from a drug overdose on her first day at Newcastle University, highlights the importance of supporting students and providing education rather than enforcing strict rules.
The SafeCourse charity, which was established to promote harm reduction policies on UK campuses, welcomes UUK’s new framework for action. They emphasize the need for universities to prioritize the safety and well-being of their students by adopting harm reduction approaches and providing drug checking services.
Parents are urged to have open and honest conversations with their children about drug use before they head off to university, while students are encouraged to be vigilant and make informed decisions. Ultimately, the goal is to prevent tragedies like Jeni Larmour’s death and ensure that students have access to the support and resources they need.
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