On 26 January 2009, cannabis was reclassified up from a Class C to a Class B drug. The government decided on the move following advice that the drug poses a real threat to the health of those who use it.
For the East Sussex Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT), this reclassification has meant that substance misuse services across East Sussex are prepared to experience an increase in the number of people that may come forward for help and support. The DAAT believes more people may want to stop using cannabis and will be actively seeking help to deal with their drug problem.
Speaking on behalf of DAAT, Councillor Bob Tidy, Lead Member for Community Safety at the County Council said: “Locally and nationally we know that most of the cannabis around today is a lot stronger than it used to be. There are real concerns about the mental health risks, especially for young people using cannabis from an early age. The DAAT is reassuring East Sussex residents that there are services available throughout the county that provide help and advice to both adults and young people who have drug problems.”
The reclassification of cannabis to a Class B drug will have an effect on policing in East Sussex. Enforcement is being strengthened and Sussex Police is issuing more severe penalties for people caught in possession of cannabis for personal use, or who are involved in the production and supply of cannabis.
Divisional Commander, Chief Superintendent Robin Smith said: “The class of drug is not the important issue, it’s the impact it has on communities (particularly young people) in East Sussex that is important. Cannabis is, without doubt, a dangerous drug and to that end, the public expect the police to take firm action – my officers and staff won’t disappoint them."
Jason Mahoney, DAAT Joint Commissioning Manager said, "Local services provide good quality information and support. Help is only a phone call away."
If you have a drug problem, or you know someone who has, please access support today:
- Substance misuse services for adults in Eastbourne, Wealden and Lewes – phone: 01323 410092
- Substance misuse services for adults in Hastings and Rother – phone: 01424 426375
- East Sussex under 19s substance misuse service – phone: 01323 841470
- NHS East Sussex stop smoking service – phone: 0800 917 8896
- www.talktofrank.com
Further information
The East Sussex Drug and Alcohol Action Team (DAAT) is a multi-agency partnership that addresses drug and alcohol issues locally. The DAAT includes NHS Hastings and Rother, NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald, East Sussex County Council, district and borough councils, Sussex Police, Sussex Probation, HMP Lewes and providers and users of services. The DAAT involves a wide range of stakeholders through a number of special interest groups.
Reference:
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Contact the press team
East Sussex County Council