Legal highs

What are legal highs?

“Legal highs”, sometimes called NPS (New Psychoactive Substances), are a type of drug that contain various chemical ingredients. These ingredients may be illegal whereas some may not be illegal. They produce similar effects to illegal drugs like cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy.

What does the law say?

Since 26th May 2016 it has been illegal to supply any “legal highs” or NPS in the UK for people to take. This includes selling them or giving them away for free (including to your friends).

This law does not apply to alcohol, medicines, nicotine, caffeine and poppers. Possession of “legal highs” or psychoactive substances is not an offence, except in a prison or young offender centre

Useful organisations

FRANK give friendly, confidential drugs advice. Visit their website or call them on 0300 123 6600.