Drugs

You can get a fine or prison sentence if you:

• take drugs

• carry drugs

• make drugs

• sell, deal or share drugs (also called ‘supplying’ them)

The penalties depend on the type of drug or substance, the amount you have, and whether you’re also dealing or producing it.

There are always risks involved when taking any kind of drug. Some drugs can be unsafe and could make you very ill.

Here are some of the risks:

• damage to your physical and mental health

• becoming addicted and feeling like you can't cope without drugs

• falling behind with school work

• falling out with family and friends

• getting into trouble with the police or involved in a crime. Find out about your rights if you're stopped and searched by the police.

• being more likely to do dangerous things

• overdosing or having a bad experience from what you've taken, also known as a 'bad trip'

• owing money to drug dealers or gangs who may become violent if you can't pay.