Drugs
Recent research suggested almost one in 10 children between 11 and 15 years old had taken drugs in the previous month.
Many drugs can legally be sold to people over a certain age like alcohol, headache tablets, cigarettes and glue, but they can still have harmful and even fatal effects on your body. On the other hand, drugs like heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and cannabis are all illegal. People who take them, sell them or are found with drugs on them are breaking the law and could be arrested by the police and sent to prison.
Illegal drugs are placed in three different categories Class A, Class B and Class C:
Class A drugs heroin, cocaine, ecstasy and LSD. If found guilty by a court of law of possessing Class A drugs you could go to prison for up to seven years and fined and if you sell Class A drugs you could receive a life imprisonment. Class B drugs amphetamines such as speed and barbiturates. People found guilty of possessing a Class B drug could go to jail for up to five years and be fined. Those caught and found guilty of trafficking a Class B drug can be sent to prison for up to 14 years. Class C drugs cannabis, tranquillisers, valium and anabolic steroids. It is illegal to have, give away or deal in Class C drugs, and to grow cannabis plants. Maximum penalties for possession are two years in jail plus an unlimited fine. Dealing or supplying could get you 14 years in jail plus an unlimited fine. Click on the name of a drug above or go to the A-Z of drugs page to find out more about different drugs. |
You can find contact details for services and support if you are a user or are concerned about a family member or friend who is a user.by returning to the main drugs, alcohol and smoking page.
