Understanding Illegal Drugs and UK Law

PSHE Education for Year 9 Learning about classification, health risks, and legal consequences

What Do You Already Know?

Think about what you've heard about illegal drugs Share one thing you think you know No wrong answers - this is just to see what we're starting with

UK Drug Classification System

Class A (Red) - Most serious penalties Class B (Amber) - Medium penalties Class C (Green) - Least serious penalties All illegal drugs fit into one of these three classes

Five Common Illegal Drugs and Their Classes

Health Risks of Illegal Drugs

{"left":"Cannabis: Memory problems, anxiety, lung damage from smoking\nCocaine: Heart problems, addiction, mental health issues\nMDMA: Dehydration, overheating, depression after use","right":"LSD: Panic attacks, flashbacks, risky behavior\nKetamine: Bladder damage, memory loss, falls and injuries"}

Legal Penalties in the UK

Possession penalties: Class A (7 years), Class B (5 years), Class C (2 years) Supply penalties: Class A (Life), Class B (14 years), Class C (14 years) These are MAXIMUM sentences - actual sentences vary Having a criminal record affects future opportunities

Myth or Fact?

Cannabis is completely safe because it's only Class C You can't get in serious trouble for just having drugs on you All illegal drugs are equally dangerous Supplying drugs to friends has the same penalties as selling them

Remember

Knowledge helps you make informed decisions Understanding the law protects you and others There's always support available if you need help