Psychoactive Substances
New psychoactive substances, often misleadingly referred to as ‘legal highs’, is an umbrella term for products that are largely intended to mimic the effects of controlled drugs such as cannabis or cocaine
The Psychoactive Substances Act (‘the Act’) was passed on 28 January 2016 and commenced on 26 May 2016. The Act introduces a blanket ban on the production and distribution of psychoactive substances, defined as any substance which is capable of producing a psychoactive effect in a person who consumes it.
To find out more go to
Pyschoactive substances act guide
The Home Office have also published various documents on the Act, including guidance for retailers and researchers and a Home Office Circular (including the forensic strategy for the Act):
