DADs Press Release regarding the debate around the Reclassification of Cannabis
< back
Cannabis plants
PRESS RELEASE
8th December 2007
DADs position in the current debate regarding the Reclassification of Cannabis from Class C drugs to Class B is that it should remain a Class C drug. We doubt that an individuals choice to use or not to use the drug is not significantly influenced by its classification.
Originally DADs had opposed the legal reclassification of cannabis in 2004. David Blunkett the Home Secretary changed the classification in a significant change in Government Drug Policy.
DADs where very concerned at that time about the messages this was giving out to youths who were at risk from potential drug misuse. Since the reclassification DADs has noticed a negative change in attitude towards cannabis and drugs in general, but evidence shows that there is a a downward trend in cannabis use amongst people.
The DADs Yorkshire & the Humber 2006 Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Award Winners do not encourage people to use cannabis, we do not promote the idea that cannabis is a risk-free drug and are not in favour of the legalisation of cannabis.
We are becoming increasingly concerned about the criminalising of young people for cannabis possession, we are concerned that there is apathy in communities and that individuals are becoming increasingly isolated because there is a distinct lack of employability, education attainment and good accommodation for those who need support the most.
DADs is funded by OneHull to deliver football outreach, this ends in March 2008, we have been working in high priority areas in Hull's diverse communities and have been surprised by the lack of enthusiasm of people to participate, rather individuals and groups are turning to alcohol and drugs to get them through the day. Furthermore the work in Prisons has highlighted the need to work together to prevent re offending, particularly with those who have a short sentence related to drug crimes.
Of real concern to DADs is the lack of a consensus of opinion to tackle the drugs issues, that there are diverse opinions from people and groups which adds to the confusion on drugs policy, whilst we welcome debate there needs to be a regional strategy that builds on a strong consortium approach that is fully inclusive. We feel strongly that there should be more opportunity for the voluntary sector and small charities to be part of the process and to provide a better and more holistic service through commissioning to tackle pertinent issues.
We feel that the classification system needs to be fully reviewed to ensure that there is a coherent policy based on evidence that classifies drugs in the right way as to prevent confusion and future divergence of opinion that gives out the wrong messages.
End.
For further information contact Rob Broomfield DADs Founder and Chief Executive t: 01482 228881 m: 078921249054
< back