Harm Reduction: Alcohol and Drug Use

 
 

This page is not here to encourage the use of alcohol and drugs but to make sure that people are aware of the dangers and impact of substance use, and to know where they can seek information, help, and support.

There is no denying that some students at Cardiff Metropolitan University drink alcohol and use drugs. The use of substances has detrimental effects on students; however, we understand that a zero-tolerance stance is harmful and damaging as it prevents students from seeking support in fear of being punished.

Cardiff Metropolitan University in partnership with Cardiff Met Student Union has taken the approach to adopt a harm reduction policy with the focus on education on the risks associated with substance use and welfare support to individuals affected. The harm reduction statement by Cardiff Metropolitan University and Cardiff Met SU is available here: Harm Reduction Approach to Alcohol and Other Drug Use - Our Commitment (cardiffmetsu.co.uk)

 


 

Effects of Substance use 

 

·        Poor academic performance

·        Poor health including mental health

·        Financial difficulties

·        Poor peer relations 

 


 

University Services

 

Student Services provide students with free support and guidance, including counselling and mental health, disability support, and money management and can be contacted at:

Email: studentservices@cardiffmet.ac.uk
Phone: 029 2041 6170

 


 

Cause for Concern 


If you are worried about the wellbeing of a friend or someone in your environment, please fill out the Cause for Concern form and they will receive free, non-judgemental and confidential support.

 


 

Alcohol Support

DO

·        you often feel the need to have a drink?

·        you get into trouble because of your drinking?

·        other people warn you about how much you're drinking?

·        you think your drinking is causing you problems? 

 

The NHS Support Pages are here to help people make better choices about drinking.

 


 

Drug Support


Although drugs are illegal, we advise safe usage and access to support services. 

 

DAN 247 – Wales Drug and Alcohol Helpline is a free and bilingual telephone helpline providing a single point of contact for anyone in Wales wanting further information or help relating to drugs or alcohol. 

 

Cardiff and Vale Drug and Alcohol Service (CAVDAS) 24/7 Drug & Alcohol Support in Cardiff & Vale - Cavdas

 

Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances (WEDINOS) is a free drug testing service where you can independently and anonymously submit a sample for testing

 


 

Policies and Procedures

·        Student Policy on substance misuse and harm reduction

·        Halls disciplinary Procedures