Briefings

Cannabis

Cannabis Briefing
KFx (January 2007)

KFx briefing on cannabis includes harm reduction and treatment interventions.

The impact of heavy cannabis use on young people
JRF (2007)

Heavy cannabis use among vulnerable young people can exacerbate existing social problems, such as low educational achievement, homelessness and unemployment.

The policing of cannabis as a Class B drug
JRF (2002)

This study by South Bank University's Criminal Policy Research Unit represents the first, detailed study of the policing of cannabis in England. It has taken place against a backdrop of intensive media and political debate on the issue - and the prospect of imminent reform.

Policing cannabis as a Class C drug
JRF (January 2007)

This research, by the Institute for Criminal Policy Research, King’s College London, studies the policing of cannabis as a Class C drug.

The domestic cultivation of cannabis
JRF (April 2003)

Significant changes are soon to be made to the laws on cannabis, but debate – and policy – have ignored issues relating to its cultivation. This study by South Bank University’s Criminal Policy Research Unit and the National Addiction Centre at King’s College, London, examined the cultivation of cannabis in England and Wales.

Policing Cannabis Use of Cannabis Warnings Guidelines
ACPO (November 2006)

Revised cannabis policing guidance from ACPO.

Further consideration of the classification of cannabis under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
AMCD (2005)

Review of evidence related to cannabis and risks, with regard to reclassification.

The Classification of Cannabis under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
AMCD (2002)

In October 2001 the Home Secretary asked the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs to review the classification of cannabis preparations in the light of current scientific evidence. This is their report.

Cannabis and mental health
Royal College of Psychiatrists (August 2006)

This leaflet looks at the research on the effects of cannabis use and mental health and is for anyone who is concerned about the issue. We hope that this will help people to make informed choices about using – or not using – cannabis.

CANNABIS AND MENTAL HEALTH: RESPONSES TO THE EMERGING EVIDENCE
KCA/Beckley Foundation (April 2006)

This briefing summarises recent learning concerning: The extent of cannabis use among young people; The evidence concerning changes in its strength and availability; The relationship between cannabis use and serious and enduring mental health problems (psychosis); and the options for controlling and responding to cannabis use.

Mental health of teenagers who use cannabis: results of an Australian survey
BJ of Psychiatry (2002)

A report to ascertain the prevalence of cannabis use among Australian adolescents, associations with mental health problems, risk behaviours and service use.

Where there's Smoke - Cannabis and Mental Health
Mental Health Council of Australia (2006)

This report aims to provide a balanced and informed view on the relationship between cannabis and mental illness. It summarises the research and states the MHCA’s position on activities and directions that governments and the mental health sector should pursue based on the existing evidence. It also highlights where the need to invest in the development of better prevention, intervention and treatment responses.

Cannabis
House of Commons (August 2000)

Report for the House of commons library on the situation with cannabis in the UK prior to reclassification.

Prospective cohort study of cannabis use, predisposition for psychosis, and psychotic symptoms in young people
BMJ (January 2005)

Cannabis use moderately increases the risk of psychotic symptoms in young people but has a much stronger effect in those with evidence of predisposition for psychosis.

Briefings Menu:

Substances