Possession: It is an offence for any person to unlawfully have a controlled drug in their possession. 

Supply: It is an offence to either supply, be concerned in the supply, offer to supply or be concerned in making an offer to supply a controlled drug. 

The Security Operative(s) should first establish: 

What has happened? 

• Have drugs been found? 
• Who is involved? 
• Are there suspicions of drug dealing? 

If drugs are found 

• Is it on the premises? 
• Seize the substance — it is legal to possess an illegal substance in order to prevent an offence being committed and then destroy it, or hand it to the police. 
• If the substance needs to be kept pending police collection, then it should be securely stored

If the action is taken to dispose of the substance, a witness must be present and the action recorded. 

If a member of staff is under the influence of a substance 

• If a member of staff is suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on its premises, the Security Operative(s) must prioritise the safety of themselves and those around them. If necessary it should be dealt with as a medical emergency, administering first aid and summoning appropriate support. Depending on the circumstances, police may need to be contacted. 
• If the member of staff is taken to hospital in an ambulance or receives medical attention at a hospital, the police must be informed. As the member of staff has been placed at significant risk or harm, the police will need to investigate potential offences in relation to the misuse or illegal taking of substances. 

A member of staff suspected to be in possession of drugs 

• Ask the member of staff to turn out their pockets and bags. Follow the search protocols in the Security Assignment Manual. However, if the member of staff is not compliant or a more personal search is required, consider calling the police to conduct the search. 
• The the member of staff should be supervised at all times to ensure they have no opportunity to dispose of any substance. 
• Ensure that a witness is present throughout and that any action taken is recorded. 
• If a substance is found – seize substance – it is legal to possess an illegal substance in order to prevent an offence being committed and then destroy it or hand it to the police.
• If the substance needs to be kept pending police collection, it should be stored securely. Seal the sample in a plastic bag and include details of the date and time of the seizure/find and witness present.
• If a small quantity is found, Security Operative(s) can manage the incident in line with their drug policy – consider a referral to a drug service for support and intervention. 
• Record full details of the incident, including the police incident reference number; 
• identify any safeguarding concerns and develop a support and disciplinary response. 

Are there any aggravating factors? 

• What age are the students involved?
• Is there a large amount or the substance prepared for dealing?
• Are there signs and symptoms of problematic drug use e.g. change of appearance/behaviour?
• Is there any indication of links to gangs or county lines? 

Involving the police 

It is essential to work in partnership with local officers for support and advice and where required, operational intervention.

see attached flowchart below