Illegal substances

Like other risky behaviours, the use of illegal substances is relevant to safeguarding because their use can be a cause of harm in and of itself, and it can also indicate that someone may be at risk of, or experiencing, other forms of harm and abuse.  

In faith and community groups, there are several safeguarding considerations in relation to illegal substances: 

• Risks to the individual.   
• Risks associated with the substances themselves.  
• The physical and psychological effects of use. 
• Exposure to unsafe environments or means of use.  
• Effects on development if used during childhood. 
• Wider implications in terms of finances, relationships and the person’s ability to keep themselves safe and well.  
• Risks associated with illegality – access through gangs, barriers to reporting harm to authorities, risk of control and exploitation.

Risks to others 

If the person using illegal substances is a parent or carer, their ability to care for and protect their children or other dependents may be impacted. 

Living in a home with alcohol or substance misuse is a recognised Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). These experiences can have a lasting negative impact on a child. 

A person’s behaviour while under the influence of some illegal substances may be unpredictable and dangerous to others.

Use of illegal substances as a sign and indicator of harm

Children and adults who are experiencing, or have experienced, harm, abuse, exploitation and trauma may use illegal substances as a coping mechanism or form of escape. 

Children using illegal substances could be an indicator of neglect, including affluent neglect. 

Illegal substance use is associated with child sexual exploitation, child criminal exploitation, trafficking, modern slavery and other forms of exploitation.

Safeguarding responsibilities

Faith and community groups have a responsibility to maintain safe environments. It is a criminal offence to allow anyone attending an activity run by an organisation to supply illegal drugs or use them on the premises. It is also important not to expose vulnerable groups to drug use or criminal activity. 

Pass on concerns to your Safeguarding Lead. 

If you are the Safeguarding Lead, follow your process for responding to safeguarding concerns. Actions will vary depending on the person’s age, the level of risk, who is in the household and several other factors. Seek advice if you are unsure of next steps. 

Across the UK, drug classification and criminal offences are reserved to Westminster, but treatment and harm reduction strategies are devolved, so the approaches to prevention, safety and recovery may vary between the nations.