FOI 739/25
REQUEST
I would like to know how informed South Police are with Medicinal Cannabis and how they treat people with Medicinal Cannabis
RESPONSE
South Wales Police does not have a specific policy on training all officers and staff around the legality of medical cannabis. South Wales Police follow Home Office Guidance as indicated above and a Force Bulletin with guidance issued on the Force intranet.
Legislation in regard to medicinal cannabis.
This is available on the government website:
You may also find the below link relating to the Use of Limited Forms of Cannabis for Medical Use, of interest. These changes are thoroughly regulated under strict controls and are certainly not to be exploited to circumvent arrest of prosecution for the illegal purchase /possession of cannabis.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cannabis-based-products-for-medicinal-use
Resources made available to officers regarding how to deal with medicinal cannabis.
Information on how officers are trained in dealing with medicinal cannabis, such as training programmes and initiatives.
South Wales Police follow Home Office guidance.
In brief this is what is given as guidance.
If someone claiming the legitimate possession and use of medical cannabis, then officers would be expected to:
- Check any ‘Apps’ with the patient to prove they are prescribed.
- Request to see a copy of the Prescription which has been issued and verify it is genuine. And ask for a form of recognised photo I.D. (such as a passport, driving licence, or a PASS accredited photocard) bearing the same name as displayed on the original pharmacy dispensing label and the copy of the FP10 or clinician's letter.
- Ensure the name matches label on packaging - patients should not remove the products from their original packaging
- Officers are aware that patients may present ‘CanCard’ although this is not legal proof. To qualify for this, a letter is required from the GP stating they have a medical condition that MAY warrant them using medical cannabis. However, this is NOT definitive proof of legal supply, and further enquiries should be conducted.
At last years’ DEWVA (Drug Expert Witness and Valuation Association) National Annual CPD event the ‘Lyphe’ group presented on medical Cannabis and the difference between ‘CanCard’ and Legally prescribed CBPM. This presentation was disseminated within Force by Regional DEWVA representatives. With reference to SWP : A Force Bulletin was issued, and this information is reenforced during EDIT (Evidential Drug Identification Testing) and Drug Investigation Courses to front line officers / staff.
Officers would pay due diligence to confirm or negate offences and take appropriate action as necessary based on the circumstances presented.