2025/01/01 by Lindsey Metcalf, Helen Wilson · 1 voice
Social Sciences · Medicine · #Crime, Illicit Activities, and Governance #Crime, Deviance, and Social Control #Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research
paper · pdf · doi:10.1093/police/paaf047
openalex publication_date 2025/01/01 · openalex created_date 2025/11/12 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/31
Abstract Worldwide, cannabis-based products for medical use are legally available in over sixty countries, reflecting major advances in clinical research and pharmaceutical investment. Although UK biotech companies are global leaders in medical cannabis products, the country is behind the international tide of policy change. New regulations in 2018 legalized cannabis prescribing, but have not been consistently implemented, nor adequately communicated to the public and public bodies, including the police. This paper reports on a police knowledge exchange and training pilot, delivered to two cohorts of UK Police Constable Degree Apprentices (n = 94) in response to an identified knowledge gap on cannabis-based medicines. The results show improved officer knowledge and a reduction in stigmatizing attitudes. The knowledge exchange identified training needs and procedural challenges for officers navigating shifting drug policy. It offers insights for improving operational practice to build public trust, reduce harm, and avoid reputational damage.