THC vapes, cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids
Some products are sold as THC vapes, cannabis vapes, HHC, spice or weed vapes. These products can be illegal, untested and unsafe, especially when sold to young people or through shops, websites, social media or local contacts.
This is a growing crossover concern
Reports about cannabis, THC or synthetic cannabinoid products often appear alongside illegal tobacco and vape concerns. This suggests the same shops, sellers or local networks may be linked to more than one type of illegal product.
1 in 6
research has found synthetic cannabinoids in vapes confiscated from schools
Source: University of Bath
1 in 2
of young people in Manchester aged 13 to 21 reported using THC vapes in the past year.
Source: GMCA
Quick answer
You can report concerns about THC vapes, cannabis vapes, HHC, spice or synthetic cannabinoid products being sold through shops, online sellers, social media, local contacts or to young people.
Useful details can include:
- Products described as THC, cannabis, weed, HHC or spice
- Vapes sold through websites or social media
- Products sold from shops or local premises
- Products being sold to children or young people
- Sellers offering cannabis vapes alongside tobacco or nicotine vapes
- Products with unclear or suspicious packaging
What does the law say?
Cannabis and THC are controlled under UK drug law. Prescribed cannabis based medicines exist in limited medical settings, but that is different from products being sold through shops, websites, social media or local contacts.
What to report?
A shop selling THC or cannabis vapes
A shop, vape shop or mixed retailer offering products described as THC, cannabis, weed, HHC or spice.
Online cannabis vape sales
Websites, marketplace listings, social media posts, WhatsApp groups, Snapchat accounts or local delivery offers.
Products sold to young people
Any concern that children or young people are being supplied cannabis or THC vapes.
Crossover sales
A seller offering cannabis vapes alongside illegal tobacco, single use vapes or underage sales.
Still not sure what to report?
What if I only heard a rumour?
A rumour on its own may not prove anything, but repeated local concern, a seller name, shop, online account or product description can still help.
Do I need to test the product?
No. Do not test, buy or handle products to prove what they are. Report what you have seen or heard.
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