Drug-related incidents in Schools
Contents
- Drug-related incidents in Schools
- Searching and screening for drugs in Schools
Searching and screening for drugs in Schools
The Government’s Drug Strategy 2010 provides guidance for schools to:
- offer accurate information on drugs and alcohol
- address problem behaviour with appropriate powers of search and confiscation
- collaborate with local organisations to prevent misuse
Responding to and managing incidents
Dealing with drug-related incidents in schools is complex because many variables are involved, such as the type of drug, whether it's a one-time event, dependency, or drug distribution.
If you suspect a student is under the influence of drugs or alcohol on school premises, prioritise the safety of the student and those around them. Treat the situation as a medical emergency if necessary by administering First Aid and calling for appropriate support, including an ambulance if needed. Depending on the situation, you may need to contact the parents or the police. If the child is at risk, follow local safeguarding procedures.
Police involvement
Refer to the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) guidance, when to call the police – guidance for Schools and Colleges, which provides advice for headteachers, senior leadership teams, and designated safeguarding leads (DSLs) on various incidents, including drug-related ones.
The NPCC advises against using drug dogs without evidence of drugs on school premises. If used for educational purposes, schools must ensure cultural sensitivity and not use dogs for detection without clear protocols.
Investigation
The headteacher or lead DSL will conduct an initial investigation of any drug-related incident. Use resources like the Children’s Society appropriate language guide 2022. Each case should be handled individually and proportionately. The police and other involved agencies can provide additional guidance.
Response
Consider a range of responses as outlined in the school’s behavioural management and disciplinary policy. Students involved in drug use or dealing may be exploited and vulnerable. Possible responses include:
- counselling
- behaviour support
- drug and alcohol programs
- pastoral support
- targeted prevention
Recording
Record all decisions, actions, and outcomes clearly at every stage. These records should be signed by the headteacher and dated, treated as a Child Protection Record, and stored securely in the child’s Safeguarding File.
Last updated 24 June 2024