New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) Resource pack for informal educators and practitioners has been produced by the UK’s Home Office in response to requests from those working directly with young people. They wanted more information about NPS drugs, and the ways in which others in the field tackle the challenge of educating young people about them, and what tools they use to do so. NPS are drugs designed to ‘replicate the effects of illegal substances’ and are sometimes referred to as legal highs. The introduction of this resource emphasises that NPS drugs may be advertised as legal but that ‘just because they are advertised as legal, doesn’t mean they are safe or legal – by definition, this exposes young people to risk and participation in risky behaviours’.

The resource covers the types of drugs now available in this category, interventions and approaches and a section on further information and resources, which also includes case studies. A useful appendix contains activities, such as quizzes, that can be used effectively with young people to extend their knowledge of NPS.

Although this resource has been produced for UK youth workers and health practitioners, it will be a useful guide for anyone working in this field.  

Click here to access the 31-page resource.