Drugs and alcohol
This section includes the university approach to students using drugs and alcohol, where to access information and support and details about disciplinary processes.
We’re a harm reduction University.
We don’t condone the use of illegal drugs or the misuse of prescription drugs or alcohol at the University of Leeds. But we understand that some students may choose to take drugs or drink alcohol during their time at Leeds.
Our harm reduction stance means we’re committed to reducing harm by offering the support, resources and education students need to feel safe, make informed choices, and succeed – at Leeds and in their futures.
Support
There are plenty of places you can get free, confidential, specialist support on campus, in Leeds, and beyond.
Help in an emergency
If you or someone else are in danger, including an overdose, act fast and get help immediately.
Help on campus
If you have an emergency on campus or in University accommodation, contact the University Security Services at 0113 343 2222. They are available 24 hours a day to help and can work with other emergency services to get you help quickly.
Help off campus
If your emergency is not on campus, call 999.
Other ways to get help
Explore other ways to get help including for health crises, helplines, and mental health crises.
Specialist support on campus
If you’re concerned about your own drinking or drug use, or another student’s, there’s free confidential advice and support available for you on campus.
Student Counselling and Wellbeing
The Student Counselling and Wellbeing team offer free, confidential support to all students at Leeds. The service is a multi-professional team of Counsellors, Wellbeing Practitioners and Mental Health Advisors who are trained to help with a range of difficulties including substance abuse.
LUU Help and Support
LUU Help and Support are a confidential service, independent from the University. They offer expert advice to students and can help you navigate things like substance abuse and addictions support. LUU Help and Support often work with University services like Student Counselling and Wellbeing to get you the support you need. LUU also offers free drug testing kits that are available for collection from the Advice Office from 9am-5pm on weekdays.
Harassment and Misconduct team
The Harassment and Misconduct team are the University’s recommended first point of contact for any student who has been impacted by violence, abuse, bullying, harassment or discrimination. This includes drink and needle spiking. The specialist team offer confidential support and information to help you choose what next step feels right for you.
Residence Life Wardens
If you live in University accommodation and feel you are struggling with drugs or alcohol, you can speak to your Residence Life Warden. They can help connect you to support. Residence Life Wardens will respect your confidentiality and seeking help won't get you into trouble or lead to any punishment.
External support and information
If you’d prefer to get support outside of the University, there are plenty of local and national organisations you can connect with.
Forward Leeds
Forward Leeds offers free, confidential alcohol and drug support for people in Leeds. They have an experienced and professional team that focuses on helping people choose not to misuse alcohol and drugs, and reduce risk-taking behaviour through dedicated prevention, intervention and support. Forward Leeds works closely with the University and LUU to provide regular drop-in appointments on campus too.
Phone: 0113 887 2477
Email: info@forwardleeds.co.uk
FRANK
FRANK offers confidential advice and honest information about drugs. You can get in touch to ask a question or for advice by phone, text, or email.
Phone: 0300 123 6600
Text: 82111
Email: frank@talktofrank.com
Narcotics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous offers peer support to anyone who has a problem with drugs. Members support each other to get and stay clean. They can be contacted by phone and there are meetings held regularly in Leeds and online.
Phone: 0300 999 1212
Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous offers peer support to anyone in the UK who wants help with their own drinking problem. Alcoholics Anonymous can be contacted by phone or email, and there are local groups who meet in Leeds.
Phone: 0800 917 7650
Email: help@aamail.org
Alcohol Change
Alcohol Change is a UK charity that focuses on reducing alcohol harm. Their website offers support, interactive tools, tips, and education to understand and manage your drinking.
Drinkline
Drinkline is a free, confidential helpline for people who are concerned about their drinking or someone else’s.
Phone: 0300 123 1110
Drinkaware
Drinkaware offers education, resources, and support to help you reduce or stop drinking, support others, understand the effects of drinking, and more.
Advice and news
Banish the booze blues: 4 tips to take control of your drinking
Have you ever skipped class or cancelled plans because of a hangover? Got so drunk you forgot your night out? Lost control and said or did something you regret? Drank too much too fast and didn’t make it out after pre drinks? Lots of people who drink alcohol have experienced at least one of these. If you have too, try out these simple tips to help you stay in control on a night out... Continue reading ‘Banish the booze blues: 4 tips to take control of your drinking’.
Is there a safe way to do drugs?
It’s no secret that some students will choose to take drugs while at university. While the only way to stay safe around drugs is to go without, if you or your mates decide to do drugs, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks. Continue reading ‘Is there a safe way to do drugs?’.
Drug testing kits available in students’ union after campaign
Leeds University Union has introduced free drug testing kits for students. The kits are available from the Advice Office within the Union building on weekdays from 9am-5pm.
Disciplinary action
Any student involved in antisocial or criminal behaviour, including using or supplying illegal drugs, will face disciplinary action from the University. You also may be referred to the West Yorkshire Police.
In accommodation
The University has a legal responsibility to ensure that its premises are not used for illegal drug activity – this includes your University accommodation. We are committed to providing a safe environment for all students in our accommodation, so it is important that you understand our policy regarding illegal drugs to maintain a secure and healthy community.
The University's policy on illegal drugs also extends to off-campus activities that impact the University, its students, or staff. If your involvement in illegal drug activities off University premises affects the welfare of the University community, disciplinary action may be taken, and you may be reported to the police.
We take a particularly serious view of anyone involved in the supply of illegal drugs, including providing drugs to friends. Engaging in such activities is strictly prohibited, and any individuals found to be involved will face severe consequences, including disciplinary action and potential legal ramifications.
Remember, the possession and use of illegal drugs is against the law. A drug conviction, or even a caution, could get you expelled from the University and seriously restrict your eligibility for certain careers. We expect all residents to adhere to the laws and regulations governing illegal drugs. By complying with this policy, we can create a safe and supportive community for everyone.
Policies
University
When you sign up to the Student Contract, you agree to abide by the rules, regulations, procedures and codes governing your studies, learning and conduct at the University. This includes alcohol, drug and substance abuse. Explore student regulations and rules for taught students.
Leeds University Union
LUU has also adopted a harm reduction approach. Find out more about their approach and LUU policies related to drugs and alcohol.
Accommodation contract
When you accept your accommodation contract you agree to follow the terms and conditions of living in University accommodation. This includes disciplinary regulations around the use of illegal drugs. View your accommodation contract.
Professional bodies
Many professional bodies (like the NHS) have their own conduct requirements around drugs and alcohol. These requirements may apply to you if you’re on a course with a professional accreditation. If you’re not sure what conduct requirements apply to you, check with your Faculty or School.