Street Lottery
Posted on 18 October 2017
Research from the Department of Health Sciences Mental Health and Addiction Research Group (MHARG) is included in a new report on cannabis potency and mental health calls for the regulation of cannabis to reduce the harmful effects of the drug on health. This report provides a concise and compelling new account of the deleterious consequences of leaving cannabis in the hands of the black market. Drawing on insights from world class academics and original research, it was commissioned to stimulate a better informed and more nuanced public debate.
With inadequate treatment provision, a lack of understanding around the key points, and no effective policy in place, there is an urgency to this issue which can longer be sidestepped. The UK must be brave in discussing and properly examining the implications of, not only the existing illicit market for cannabis, but the real challenges that exist in implementing a safe and responsible system of regulation in which mental health is a key priority.
The report includes research from the Mental Health and Addiction Research Group (MHARG) carried out by Charlie Lloyd and Ian Hamilton.
The full report can be accessed at http://volteface.me/publications/street-lottery/.