BBPA issues updated drugs advice for pubs

By Fred A'Court

- Last updated on GMT

Crackdown: pubs need to be aware of new rules that target legal highs such as Spice
Crackdown: pubs need to be aware of new rules that target legal highs such as Spice

Related tags Drug addiction Drug

Fresh advice on how pubs should tackle drug use and drug users has been issued by the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).

The guidance looks at the implications of a new law brought in last year aimed at cracking down on trade in legal highs, as well as offering advice on door searches.

Detailed information on commonly used drugs and how to identify drug use is also included. It has been produced with input from the Home Office and National Pubwatch.

The BBPA said the guide will ensure that licencees and their staff can be fully informed and equipped to tackle drug-related issues.

Chief executive Brigid Simmonds said drugs can be associated with the night-time economy, and even the best-run premises are not always immune. 

“A proactive approach to tackling illicit drugs and a strong relationship with the police and local authorities are the best way forward.

“Following this guidance will further ensure that licensees and staff are fully up-to-date on the law, and well equipped to deal with these issues.”

National Pubwatch chairman Steve Baker said individuals who either use or deal in drugs can have a disproportionate impact on the pub and hospitality industry.

“It is in everyone's interest that we work together to tackle the people who pose a real threat to customer safety and business profitability.”

The law dealing with legal highs, the Psychoactive Substances Act, came into force in April last year. The main intention of the Act is to shut down shops and websites that currently trade in ‘legal highs’.

The Act makes it an offence to produce, supply or offer to supply any psychoactive substance if the substance is likely to be used for its psychoactive effects and regardless of its potential for harm, said UK DrugWatch, a group of professionals working in the UK drugs sector.

The only exemption from the Act are those substances already controlled by the Misuse of Drugs Act, nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and medicinal products.

The guide - Drugs and pubs: A guide to keeping a drug free pub,​- is free to download from the BBPA website.

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