Vaping flavored e-liquid from an electronic cigarette

Vaping

by StopNAsk
Resources / Vaping: know what you’re breathing in
Young people & parents guide • London, Essex & Kent

Vaping.
Do you know what’s in it?

Lots of young people are buying vapes from shops, friends and social media that are illegal, fake or unregulated. Many have no idea what they are really breathing in. This guide explains the chemicals, the risks, the long-term effects, and where to get help to cut down or stop.

Get help to stop ↓ Talk to us
Did you know?

1 in 6 vapes confiscated in English schools contained spice.

01

The numbers don’t lie.

Young people’s vaping has levelled off, but hundreds of thousands still vape, and many of the vapes they use aren’t what they think.

1 in 511 to 17-year-olds in Great Britain have tried vaping, around 1.1 million young people.
370,00011 to 17-year-olds currently vape, and around 140,000 vape every day.
47%of young people who vape get their vapes from shops, even though it is illegal to sell to under-18s.
1 in 6vapes confiscated in schools in a University of Bath study contained spice, a powerful synthetic drug.
74%of the schools in that study had at least one vape containing spice.
9.6×the safe level of nickel was found in illegal vapes confiscated from pupils at one school, along with lead and chromium.
02

What are you really breathing in?

Even legal vapes contain chemicals. Illegal and fake vapes can contain much more, and there is no way to know just by looking.

In every vape

Even legal, regulated vapes

  • Nicotine, a highly addictive drug, in most vapes
  • Propylene glycol and glycerine, the liquids that make the “cloud”
  • Flavourings, which are safe to eat but not tested for breathing in
  • Chemicals made when the liquid is heated, such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, in small amounts
  • Tiny metal particles from the heating coil
In illegal vapes

What testing has found

  • Lead, which damages the brain and nervous system
  • Nickel and chromium, at many times the safe level
  • Much higher levels of harmful chemicals, in some cases more than cigarettes
  • Far more nicotine than the legal limit
  • Spice (synthetic cannabinoids), THC and even ketamine, sold as “normal” vapes
“In 15 years of testing, I have never seen lead in a device.” Lab boss on vapes taken from school pupils.
Spice and THC vapes

The vape that sends young people to hospital

Some vapes sold as THC (cannabis) vapes, or even as normal nicotine vapes, actually contain spice, a man-made drug that can be far stronger than cannabis. You can’t tell by looking, smelling or tasting.

Young people across England have collapsed and been taken to hospital after using these vapes, sometimes after just a few puffs.

999 If someone collapses

Warning signs after vaping

  1. Sudden panic, paranoia or hallucinations
  2. Being sick, very dizzy or confused
  3. A racing heartbeat or chest pain
  4. Fitting (seizures), collapsing or not responding

Call 999 if someone collapses, has a seizure or can’t be woken. Put them on their side in the recovery position, stay with them, and keep the vape to show paramedics.

03

How to spot an illegal vape

Illegal vapes are often cheaper, have bigger tanks and promise thousands of puffs. That’s exactly what makes them dangerous: they are made without any safety checks, so no one knows what’s inside.

Since June 2025, single-use disposable vapes have been banned from sale in the UK, so any disposable you are sold now is illegal.

It is also illegal for anyone to sell vapes to under-18s, or for an adult to buy them for someone under 18.

04

The effects on your body and mind.

Vaping is less harmful than smoking for adults trying to quit, but it is not safe, and it is not for young people. Young people’s lungs and brains are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to its effects. Because vaping is still new, no one yet knows the long-term risks.

01

Addiction

Nicotine is highly addictive, and the developing brain gets hooked faster. Many young people find they can’t go long without a vape.

02

Brain development

Nicotine can affect the parts of the brain that control attention, learning, memory and mood, which keep developing until your mid-20s.

03

Lungs and breathing

Vaping can irritate the lungs and airways, causing coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, and can make asthma worse.

04

Mood and anxiety

Nicotine cravings and withdrawal can cause irritability, anxiety, low mood and trouble sleeping. Many people vape to feel calm, but it can make anxiety worse.

05

Heart

Nicotine raises your heart rate and blood pressure.

06

Too much nicotine

High-strength illegal vapes can cause nicotine poisoning: feeling sick, being sick, dizziness, headaches and a fast heartbeat.

Burns and fires

Cheap, fake vapes and batteries can overheat, catch fire or explode, especially when charged overnight or with the wrong charger.

Mouth and teeth

Vaping can cause a dry mouth, sore throat and gum irritation.

05

For parents and carers

Stay curious, not furious. Ask what they know about vaping, what their friends do, and why people vape. Listen more than you talk.

Share the facts. Many young people don’t know that illegal vapes can contain lead, spice or far more nicotine than the legal limit.

Don’t panic if they’re hooked. Stopping suddenly can be hard. Free support is available to help them cut down and stop.

Report illegal sellers. If a shop is selling to children or selling illegal vapes, report it to Trading Standards. You don’t have to give your name to the shop.

06

Get help to stop.

Free, confidential support for young people and families in London, Essex and Kent, plus how to report illegal sellers.

Anywhere, any time

Honest drug advice · 24/7

FRANK

Facts about vapes, nicotine, spice and THC, and confidential advice for young people and parents.

0300 123 6600 · text 82111Visit website →NHS

NHS Smokefree

Free help and advice to quit smoking or vaping, including the NHS Quit Smoking app.

Visit website →For young people

Childline

Free, confidential support for under-19s about anything, including vaping and peer pressure.

0800 1111Visit website →Report illegal sellers

Citizens Advice consumer helpline

Report shops selling vapes to under-18s or selling illegal vapes. Your report goes to your local Trading Standards.

0808 223 1133Make a report →Urgent medical advice

NHS 111

If you feel unwell after vaping and it isn’t an emergency. In an emergency, call 999.

111Visit website →

London

Havering

Live Well Havering: vaping and quitting

Local information and support to stop smoking and vaping in Havering.

Visit website →Havering · ages 10 to 18

Wize Up Havering (Change Grow Live)

Free support for young people worried about spice, THC or other substances in vapes, and their families.

07920 807 726Visit website →Every London borough

Find your local service

Every London borough has free young people’s drug and alcohol support. Enter your postcode on FRANK to find yours.

Search by postcode →

Essex

Essex · ages 13 to 18

Break the Vape (The Children’s Society)

4 to 6 free sessions with a vaping practitioner to help young people cut down and quit, face to face, online or by phone. Young people can refer themselves.

Refer yourself →For parents

Clear the Air

Essex campaign for parents of 10 to 12-year-olds, with myth-busting facts and help to talk about vaping.

Visit website →Essex Trading Standards

Report illegal vapes in Essex

Report shops in Essex selling illegal vapes or selling vapes to under-18s by email to Essex County Council.

tobacco.vapes@essex.gov.ukSend a report →Essex · under 25

Essex Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service

Support for young people worried about spice, THC or other drugs in vapes. Covers Essex, apart from Southend and Thurrock.

01245 493311Visit website →

Kent

Kent · under 18s

One You Kent Smokefree

Free one-to-one or group support from a Smokefree Adviser, face to face or by phone. Free nicotine replacement for over-12s. Call to ask about help with vaping.

0300 123 1220Visit website →Kent · young people

We Are With You: Kent for Young People

Free, confidential support for young people worried about spice, THC or other drugs. Young people and parents can refer.

01795 500881Visit website →Medway

Medway young people’s service

Medway has its own service, separate from Kent. Enter your postcode on FRANK to find it.

Search by postcode →
Need to speak to someone? Just ask.
Want to cut down, worried about what’s in your vape, or worried about a friend or your child? Youth Unity is always here to talk. No judgement, just support.
Talk to us →

Sources

  1. ASH: Smokefree GB Youth Survey 2026 fact sheet
  2. College of Policing: Spice vapes in schools
  3. Vapes seized from school pupils contain lead, nickel and chromium
  4. NHS: Young people and vaping
  5. Change Grow Live: How to identify illegal vaping products
  6. Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026
  7. Essex Safeguarding Children Board: Youth vaping
  8. Kent County Council: Smoking and young people
  9. Havering Council: Stopping smoking saves lives

This guide is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Statistics and service details were checked in October 2026 and may change. In an emergency, always call 999.

sad woman sitting alone in a empty room

Self Harming

by StopNAsk
Resources / Self-harm: understanding and getting help
Young people & parents guide • London, Essex & Kent

Self-harm.
You don’t have to cope alone.

More and more young people, especially teenage girls, are struggling with self-harm. It is usually a sign that someone is going through something really painful. This guide helps young people, parents and carers understand self-harm, respond with care, and find support in London, Essex and Kent.

Need help now? ↓ All support services
Talk now · 24/7

Samaritans 116 123 · Text SHOUT to 85258 · Childline 0800 1111

If you need help right now

You deserve support today.

If you are hurting yourself, thinking about it, or feel unable to keep yourself safe, please reach out now. You won’t be judged, and you don’t need to explain everything at once.

999 If someone is seriously hurt or in danger

Or go to your nearest A&E. For urgent mental health support any time, call NHS 111 and choose option 2.

Free, confidential and open now

  1. Samaritans: call 116 123, any time, day or night
  2. Shout: text SHOUT to 85258, any time
  3. Childline: call 0800 1111 if you’re under 19
  4. Papyrus HOPELINE247: call 0800 068 4141 or text 07860 039967 if you’re under 35 and having thoughts of suicide

Not ready to talk? Tell one person you trust, such as a friend, family member, teacher or youth worker, that you’re struggling.

01

What is self-harm?

Self-harm is when someone hurts themselves on purpose. It can take many forms and can happen at any age, but it is most common among teenagers.

Self-harm is usually a way of coping with feelings that seem too much to handle, not an attempt to end life. But it is always a sign that someone is in real distress, and it can be very dangerous. Some people who self-harm also have thoughts of suicide, so it should always be taken seriously.

It is not attention-seeking. Most young people who self-harm try hard to hide it, and many feel ashamed. What they need is understanding and support, not judgement.

02

Why we’re talking about it.

Hospital figures only show a small part of the picture, because most self-harm never reaches hospital. But they show how many young people, especially girls, are struggling.

4×Young women aged 10 to 24 are around four times more likely than young men to be admitted to hospital for self-harm.
2.5×Hospital admissions for self-harm among 10 to 14-year-olds rose about two and a half times in ten years, to 2021/22.
15 to 19is the age group with the highest rates of hospital admission for self-harm.
Behind every number is a young person who needed someone to notice. Noticing, listening and acting early makes a difference.
03

Understanding why.

There is rarely just one reason. Self-harm is often linked to overwhelming emotions and difficult experiences. Some young people describe it as a way to feel in control, to express pain they can’t put into words, or to escape feeling numb. The relief doesn’t last, and the feelings underneath remain, which is why support matters so much.

Pressure

School and exams

Feeling under constant pressure to achieve, or worrying about the future.

Relationships

Bullying and friendships

Being bullied in person or online, falling out with friends, or feeling left out.

Online

Social media

Comparing yourself to others, online abuse, and seeing harmful content that makes self-harm seem normal.

Identity

Body image and identity

Struggling with how you look, your sexuality or gender identity, or discrimination.

Trauma

Difficult experiences

Abuse, neglect, sexual violence, loss or grief, or problems at home.

Mental health

Anxiety, depression and more

Low mood, anxiety, loneliness, eating difficulties, or feeling empty or numb.

Teenage girls may be more affected because of a mix of pressures, including appearance, social media, sexual harassment and online abuse, and being more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Boys self-harm too, but are less likely to ask for help.

04

Social media and harmful content.

Some online spaces share self-harm images, hashtags and “challenges” that can make it seem normal, or even encourage it. Algorithms can push more of this content to people who are already struggling.

Under the Online Safety Act, social media sites must now protect children from content that promotes self-harm. Encouraging someone to seriously harm themselves is a crime, with up to 5 years in prison.

If you see harmful content, report it to the platform, and don’t share it. If it’s upsetting you, take a break, mute or unfollow, and talk to someone.

05

Signs to look out for

Many young people hide self-harm. These signs don’t always mean someone is self-harming, but they show someone may need support.

Physical signs

  • Unexplained injuries, often with excuses
  • Covering arms or legs, even in hot weather
  • Avoiding PE, swimming or changing in front of others

Emotional signs

  • Low mood, tearfulness or anger
  • Seeming numb, hopeless or withdrawn
  • Talking about being a burden or wanting to disappear

Changes in behaviour

  • Spending a lot of time alone
  • Changes in sleep or eating
  • Losing interest in friends, school or hobbies
06

If you’re struggling.

You are not weak, broken or alone. Lots of young people have felt like this and found ways through with support.

Reach out

Tell someone

  • Choose someone you trust: a friend, parent, teacher, youth worker or GP
  • If saying it out loud feels too hard, write it down or send a message
  • You can contact Childline, Shout or Samaritans without giving your name
  • You don’t have to stop straight away to ask for help
When feelings get too much

Things that can help in the moment

  • Text or call someone, or a helpline
  • Go somewhere safe where other people are around
  • Slow your breathing: breathe in for 4, hold for 4, out for 6
  • Ground yourself: name 5 things you can see, 4 you can hear, 3 you can touch
  • Move, go for a walk, play music, draw or write how you feel
  • Try the free Calm Harm app, designed with young people
Make a safety plan with someone you trust: your warning signs, things that help, people to contact and places that feel safe. Keep it on your phone.
07

For parents and carers.

Stay calm. Finding out can be frightening, upsetting or make you feel guilty. Try to stay calm in front of your child, and get support for yourself too.

Listen without judgement. Thank them for telling you. Ask how they’re feeling, rather than focusing on the injuries. Let them know you love them and want to help.

Don’t make them promise to stop. Stopping suddenly can be very hard, and promises can lead to hiding it. Focus on getting support for the feelings underneath.

Get help together. Make sure any injuries are checked by a GP, pharmacist or A&E if needed. Speak to your GP about support, contact the YoungMinds Parents Helpline, or refer to your local children’s mental health service.

Ask about suicide. If you’re worried, ask directly and calmly whether they are thinking about suicide. Asking does not put the idea in their head, and it can help them open up.

08

Where to get help.

Free and confidential support for young people and families in London, Essex and Kent.

Talk now, 24/7

Any age · 24/7

Samaritans

Someone to talk to, day or night, about anything you’re going through.

116 123Visit website →Text · 24/7

Shout

Free, confidential text support with a trained volunteer.

Text SHOUT to 85258Visit website →Under 19s · 24/7

Childline

Free, confidential support by phone, online chat or email.

0800 1111Visit website →Under 35s · 24/7

Papyrus HOPELINE247

For young people having thoughts of suicide, and anyone worried about a young person.

0800 068 4141 · text 07860 039967Visit website →Urgent mental health · 24/7

NHS 111, option 2

Urgent mental health support for people of any age in England, any time.

111, then option 2Visit website →Under 25s

The Mix

Free, confidential support for young people about mental health and more.

Text THEMIX to 85258Visit website →

Self-harm support

Ages 10 to 17

Alumina (selfharm.co.uk)

A free 7-week online support group for young people struggling with self-harm, led by trained counsellors. No one can see or hear you.

Sign up →Free app

Calm Harm

An app developed with young people to help manage the urge to self-harm, with activities and a safety plan.

Visit website →Information

Harmless

Information, support and resources for people who self-harm and those who support them.

Visit website →

For parents and carers

Parents

YoungMinds Parents Helpline

Advice for parents and carers worried about a child’s mental health. Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4pm, plus webchat.

0808 802 5544Visit website →Worried about a child

NSPCC Helpline

Advice if you are worried about a child’s safety or wellbeing.

0808 800 5000Visit website →Your GP

Talk to your GP

Your GP can check any injuries, talk about support, and refer to local children’s mental health services.

Find a GP →

London

Havering · ages 11 to 18

Havering CAMHS (NELFT)

NHS children’s mental health service. Young people and families can refer themselves online.

Self-refer →North east London · ages 11 to 19

Kooth

Free, anonymous online counselling and chat for young people in Havering and across north east London.

Visit website →Urgent · 24/7

NHS 111, option 2

Urgent mental health support in Havering and across London, any time, day or night.

111, then option 2Visit website →

Essex

Essex · children and young people

EWMHS (NELFT)

Emotional Wellbeing and Mental Health Service. Young people can refer themselves. Weekdays 9am to 5pm. Out of hours: 0300 555 1201.

0300 300 1600Visit website →Essex · ages 11 to 18

Kooth Essex

Free, anonymous online counselling and support across Essex, Southend and Thurrock.

Visit website →

Kent

Kent · children and young people

Kent CYPMHS (NELFT)

Single Point of Access for children’s mental health services. Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. Out of hours: Mental Health Direct, 0300 555 1000.

0800 011 3474Visit website →Kent & Medway · 24/7

Release the Pressure

Free, confidential text support for anyone in Kent and Medway who is struggling.

Text KENT to 85258Visit website →Kent & Medway · ages 10 to 25

Kooth

Free, confidential online mental health support and chat.

Visit website →
We’re always here to talk
If you’re struggling, or worried about someone, you can come to us. Youth Unity is here to listen, without judgement, and to help you find the right support.
Talk to us →

Sources

  1. Nuffield Trust: Hospital admissions as a result of self-harm in children and young people
  2. NELFT: Call NHS 111 option 2 for urgent mental health support
  3. Online Safety Act 2023: encouraging serious self-harm offence
  4. selfharm.co.uk: Alumina
  5. Zero Suicide Alliance: Support for young people
  6. Essex County Council: YoungMinds Parents Helpline
  7. NELFT: Havering CAMHS, age 11 to 18
  8. NELFT: Essex EWMHS
  9. Kelsi: Kent children and young people’s mental health service
  10. Samaritans: If you see worrying content online

This guide is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Service details were checked in October 2026 and may change. If someone is seriously hurt or in immediate danger, call 999 or go to A&E.

SPICE

SPICE

by StopNAsk
Resources / Spice: what you need to know
Young people & parents guide • London, Essex & Kent

Spice.
Not weed. Not safe.

Spice is a man-made drug designed to copy the effects of cannabis, but it can be far stronger and much more unpredictable. More and more, it is turning up in vapes, sweets and weed sold to young people as “THC”. This guide explains what spice is, its effects, its dangers, and what to do if someone is unwell.

What to do in an emergency ↓ Get support
Remember

You can’t see, smell or taste spice. Sold as “THC” doesn’t mean it’s THC.

01

What is spice?

Spice is the common name for synthetic cannabinoids: chemicals made in labs that act on the same parts of the brain as cannabis. Unlike cannabis, they are not from a plant, and many types are much more powerful.

The chemicals are made as a powder, then dissolved and sprayed onto dried plant material, paper or herbal cannabis, or added to vape liquids, sweets and edibles.

Because the chemicals keep changing and the amount sprayed on is uneven, two puffs from the same bag or vape can have completely different effects. Nobody can know how strong it is, not even the person selling it.

02

Closer to home than you think.

1 in 6vapes confiscated in schools in a University of Bath study contained spice.
74%of the schools in that study, across London and other English cities, had at least one vape containing spice.
165deaths involving spice were reported in England between 2012 and 2019. Most people collapsed suddenly.
In April 2026, spice was found in coloured vape liquids in Merton, south London, after several under-18s were taken to hospital.
03

The effects

Some people feel relaxed or “out of it” at first. But spice can quickly cause serious effects on the mind and body, sometimes after just a few puffs.

On the mind

Mental effects

  • Extreme anxiety and panic attacks
  • Paranoia, hallucinations and delusions
  • Confusion and memory problems
  • Aggressive or violent behaviour
  • Psychosis, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide
On the body

Physical effects

  • A racing heart, chest pain and high blood pressure
  • Feeling very sick and being sick
  • Losing control of movement, or becoming “zombie-like” and unable to move
  • Seizures (fits)
  • Collapsing and losing consciousness
04

Why spice is so dangerous.

01

Far stronger than cannabis

Many synthetic cannabinoids act on the brain much more strongly than the THC in cannabis, so it is easy to take a dangerous amount.

02

Unpredictable

The chemicals and strength change from batch to batch. Even people who have used it before can be caught out.

03

Hidden in other products

Young people are taking spice without knowing it, in vapes and sweets sold as THC or cannabis.

04

Highly addictive

Spice can be very addictive. People who stop can have strong cravings, sweating, sickness, anxiety and trouble sleeping.

05

Deadly when mixed

In most spice-related deaths, other substances were also involved, most often alcohol. Mixing spice with anything greatly raises the risk.

06

Debt and exploitation

Spice is cheap, which makes it easy to get hooked and fall into debt with dealers, who may then pressure young people into crime.

If someone is unwell after spice

Act fast. It can save a life.

999 Call an ambulance

Call 999 straight away if someone:

  • !Collapses or can’t be woken
  • !Has a seizure (fit)
  • !Has chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • !Is extremely confused, paranoid or a danger to themselves or others

What to do

  1. Call 999 and tell them what you think they have taken. Be honest. Paramedics are there to help.
  2. If they are breathing but unresponsive, put them on their side in the recovery position.
  3. If they are having a seizure, move things away so they don’t hurt themselves. Don’t hold them down or put anything in their mouth.
  4. Stay with them, keep them calm, and keep checking their breathing.
  5. Keep the vape, sweets or packaging to show the paramedics.

Don’t leave them alone to “sleep it off”, and don’t give them alcohol or other drugs.

05

The law

Spice and other synthetic cannabinoids are Class B drugs, the same as cannabis. They are illegal to have, give away or sell.

Possession can lead to up to 5 years in prison, and supplying, including sharing with friends, up to 14 years.

Spice was once sold as a “legal high”, but that hasn’t been the case for years.

06

Get support

Free and confidential help for young people and families in London, Essex and Kent.

Anywhere, any time

Drug advice · 24/7

FRANK

Honest, confidential information about spice, cannabis and other drugs for young people and parents.

0300 123 6600 · text 82111Visit website →Under 19s · 24/7

Childline

Free, confidential support about drugs, pressure, or anything else that’s worrying you.

0800 1111Visit website →Urgent medical advice

NHS 111

If someone feels unwell after using spice and it isn’t an emergency. In an emergency, call 999.

111Visit website →100% anonymous

Fearless (Crimestoppers)

Tell Fearless anonymously about drug dealing or young people being exploited.

0800 555 111Visit website →For families

Addiction Family Support

Support for parents and family members affected by a loved one’s drug use.

0300 888 3853Visit website →Legal advice

Release

Free, confidential advice on drugs and the law for young people and families.

020 7324 2989Visit website →

London

Havering · ages 10 to 18

Wize Up Havering (Change Grow Live)

Free, confidential drug and alcohol support for young people in Havering and their families. Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

07920 807 726Visit website →Every London borough

Find your local service

Each London borough has its own free young people’s drug and alcohol service. Enter your postcode on FRANK to find yours.

Search by postcode →

Essex

Essex · under 25

Essex Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service

Run by The Children’s Society. Covers Essex, apart from Southend and Thurrock. Young people can refer themselves.

01245 493311Visit website →Southend

Southend Young Person Drug and Alcohol Service (Open Road)

Support for young people in Southend. Parents and carers of under-18s can refer online.

01702 431889Visit website →Thurrock

Thurrock Young Person Drug and Alcohol Service (Open Road)

Support for young people under 18 in Thurrock.

Visit website →

Kent

Kent · young people

We Are With You: Kent for Young People

Free, confidential support for young people in Kent. Young people can refer themselves, and parents can make a referral.

01795 500881Visit website →Medway

Medway young people’s service

Medway has its own service, separate from Kent. Enter your postcode on FRANK to find it.

Search by postcode →
We’re always here to talk
Worried about something you’ve taken, or about a friend or your child? Youth Unity is always here to listen. No judgement, just support.
Talk to us →

Sources

  1. Forward Trust: Synthetic cannabinoids found in vapes in Greater London
  2. College of Policing: Spice vapes in schools
  3. St George’s, University of London: Deaths involving synthetic cannabinoids in England
  4. ACMD: Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists
  5. Home Office: Synthetic cannabinoids and the law
  6. FRANK: Cannabis

This guide is for general information and does not replace medical or legal advice. Statistics and service details were checked in October 2026 and may change. In an emergency, always call 999.

images-8

Cannabis – Weed

by StopNAsk
Resources / Cannabis: the real risks
Young people & parents guide • London, Essex & Kent

Cannabis.
It’s not what it used to be.

Lots of young people think cannabis is harmless or “just weed”. But the cannabis sold today is much stronger than in the past, and some of it is mixed with other drugs, including spice. This guide explains the names it goes by, how it is mixed, the real risks to your body, mind and future, the law, and where to get help.

Get support ↓ What is spice?
Did you know?

You can’t see, smell or taste spice. It can be in weed, sweets or vapes.

01

The facts behind the smoke.

86%of children in drug and alcohol treatment in England in 2024 to 2025 were there because of cannabis, nearly 14,000 young people.
5×higher risk of psychosis for people who use high-strength cannabis every day, compared with people who have never used it.
1 in 3new cases of psychosis in London could be prevented if high-strength cannabis wasn’t available, according to the same study.
1 in 6vapes confiscated in schools in a University of Bath study contained spice.
2×the chance of a serious or fatal crash when driving after using cannabis.
Class BCannabis is illegal. Possession can lead to up to 5 years in prison, and supply up to 14 years.
02

Know the names.

Cannabis goes by lots of names, and new ones appear all the time. Knowing them helps parents and carers recognise what young people are talking about.

Cannabis

Common names

Weed, bud, grass, herb, ganja, draw, dope, pot, puff, marijuana, green, loud, gas, zaza, pack

How it’s smoked

Joints and more

Spliff, zoot, joint, blunt, bong, “burning”, “blazing”, “smoking a zoot”

Strong strains

Skunk and more

Skunk, haze, kush, and many brand-style “strain” names

Resin and concentrates

Very strong forms

Hash, resin, solid, oil, wax, dabs, shatter

Edibles and vapes

Hidden forms

Edibles, gummies, “THC sweets”, carts, THC vapes, pens

Synthetic cannabinoids

Spice

Spice, mamba, black mamba, K2, “wet” or sprayed weed, and often sold simply as “THC”

03

How it’s mixed, and why that matters.

Much stronger than before. Most cannabis sold in the UK today is high-strength skunk, with much more THC (the chemical that gets you high) and little or none of the CBD that can balance its effects.

Mixed with tobacco. Most joints contain tobacco, so people get hooked on nicotine as well, with all the risks of smoking.

Mixed with alcohol. Combining the two makes people far more likely to feel very sick, dizzy and faint, sometimes called “whitey-ing”.

Cut with other substances. Street cannabis isn’t checked. It can contain pesticides, mould, or other drugs, and there is no way to know what you have.

Edibles are unpredictable. They take a long time to work, so people often take more, then feel the effects all at once. They can look exactly like well-known sweets and chocolate, which puts younger children at risk.

Spice (synthetic cannabinoids)

Not weed. Far more dangerous.

Spice is a man-made chemical designed to act like cannabis, but it can be many times stronger and much less predictable. It is sometimes sprayed onto herbal cannabis or added to sweets and vapes sold as “THC”.

In April 2026, spice was found in coloured vape liquids in Merton, south London, after several under-18s were taken to hospital.

999 If someone collapses

Warning signs

  1. Extreme panic, paranoia or hallucinations
  2. Confusion, aggression or very strange behaviour
  3. A racing heart, chest pain or being sick
  4. Seizures, collapse or not responding

Call 999 if someone collapses, has a seizure or can’t be woken. Put them on their side in the recovery position, stay with them, and tell paramedics what they took.

04

The risks to your mind, body and future.

The teenage brain is still developing until around age 25, which makes young people more vulnerable to cannabis’s effects.

01

Mental health

Anxiety, panic attacks, paranoia, low mood and sleep problems. Regular use of strong cannabis increases the risk of psychosis, especially for teenagers and people with a family history of mental illness.

02

Memory and learning

Cannabis affects concentration, memory and motivation. Regular use by young people has been linked to poorer exam results.

03

Addiction

Cannabis can be addictive. Heavy users can crave it and feel irritable, anxious and unable to sleep or eat when they stop.

04

Lungs and heart

Smoking cannabis, especially with tobacco, causes coughing and wheezing, makes asthma worse, and long-term can lead to lung and heart problems.

05

Exploitation and debt

Young people who use or sell cannabis can be drawn into debt, threatened, or exploited by gangs and county lines.

06

Accidents

Cannabis slows reactions and affects judgement, making accidents, injuries and risky situations more likely.

05

What the law says.

Cannabis and most synthetic cannabinoids are Class B drugs. CBD products sold in shops are different, but anything sold as “THC” is illegal.

Up to 5 years

Possession

Having cannabis for yourself is illegal, even a small amount. Police may give a warning or a fine at first, but you can be arrested.

Up to 14 years

Supply

Selling, sharing or even passing cannabis to a friend counts as supply, which is treated much more seriously.

Up to 14 years

Growing

Growing cannabis, or letting it be grown or used in your home, is a crime.

Driving

Drug driving

Driving with cannabis in your system is illegal. It can lead to a driving ban, a fine and a criminal record.

Your future

A criminal record

A drugs conviction can affect college and university places, jobs, and travel to countries such as the USA.

Under 18

No exceptions

Young people can be arrested from age 10. Police and schools may also refer young people to support services.

06

For parents and carers.

Stay calm and keep talking. Young people are more likely to be honest if they don’t expect a row. Ask what they know and what their friends think.

Share the facts, not scare stories. Talk about how strong cannabis is today, and about spice in “THC” sweets and vapes.

Watch for debt or pressure. Unexplained money, new phones, or seeming scared of certain people can be signs of exploitation.

Get support early. Young people’s drug services are free and confidential, and you can contact them for advice too.

07

Get support

Free and confidential help for young people and families in London, Essex and Kent. Young people can contact most services themselves.

Anywhere, any time

Drug advice · 24/7

FRANK

Honest, confidential information about cannabis, spice and other drugs for young people and parents.

0300 123 6600 · text 82111Visit website →Under 19s · 24/7

Childline

Free, confidential support about drugs, pressure, or anything else that’s worrying you.

0800 1111Visit website →Urgent medical advice

NHS 111

If someone feels unwell after using cannabis and it isn’t an emergency. In an emergency, call 999.

111Visit website →100% anonymous

Fearless (Crimestoppers)

Tell Fearless anonymously about drug dealing or young people being exploited.

0800 555 111Visit website →For families

Addiction Family Support

Support for parents and family members affected by a loved one’s drug use.

0300 888 3853Visit website →Legal advice

Release

Free, confidential advice on drugs and the law for young people and families.

020 7324 2989Visit website →

London

Havering · ages 10 to 18

Wize Up Havering (Change Grow Live)

Free, confidential drug and alcohol support for young people in Havering and their families. Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

07920 807 726Visit website →Every London borough

Find your local service

Each London borough has its own free young people’s drug and alcohol service. Enter your postcode on FRANK to find yours.

Search by postcode →

Essex

Essex · under 25

Essex Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service

Run by The Children’s Society. Covers Essex, apart from Southend and Thurrock. Young people can refer themselves.

01245 493311Visit website →Southend

Southend Young Person Drug and Alcohol Service (Open Road)

Support for young people in Southend. Parents and carers of under-18s can refer online.

01702 431889Visit website →Thurrock

Thurrock Young Person Drug and Alcohol Service (Open Road)

Support for young people under 18 in Thurrock.

Visit website →

Kent

Kent · young people

We Are With You: Kent for Young People

Free, confidential support for young people in Kent. Young people can refer themselves, and parents can make a referral.

01795 500881Visit website →Medway

Medway young people’s service

Medway has its own service, separate from Kent. Enter your postcode on FRANK to find it.

Search by postcode →
We’re always here to talk
Want to cut down, worried about what you’ve taken, under pressure, or worried about someone else? Youth Unity is always here to listen. No judgement, just support.
Talk to us →

Sources

  1. FRANK: Cannabis
  2. GOV.UK: Children’s substance misuse treatment statistics 2024 to 2025
  3. High-potency cannabis and psychosis (Di Forti et al., The Lancet Psychiatry, 2019)
  4. Forward Trust: Synthetic cannabinoids found in vapes in Greater London
  5. College of Policing: Spice vapes in schools
  6. Nearly all cannabis seized by UK police is high-strength skunk

This guide is for general information and does not replace medical or legal advice. Statistics and service details were checked in October 2026 and may change. In an emergency, always call 999.

Multi cultural society and multiculturalism as a celebration of diverse cultures and diversity or African black pride as a multicultural social unity with people of different races united in a 3D illustration style.

Know your rights Report it

by StopNAsk
Resources / Racism: know your rights
Young people & parents guide • London, Essex & Kent

Racism.
Know your rights. Report it.

More and more young people are telling us about racism, at school, on the street, at work and online. Racism is never okay, and you don’t have to put up with it. This guide explains your rights, how to respond safely, when something is a crime, and exactly who to report it to in London, Essex and Kent.

Who to report to ↓ Talk to us
Your right

To be safe, respected and treated equally, whoever you are.

01

It’s not just you. It’s rising.

Police in England and Wales recorded the highest number of race hate crimes since records began in the year to March 2026.

107,926race hate crimes recorded by police in the year to March 2026, up 9% on the year before.
3 in 4hate crimes recorded by police are racially motivated.
+13%rise in religious hate crimes in the same year, to 11,419.
Many racist incidents are never reported. Young people often think nothing will change. Reporting is how things change.
02

What racism can look like.

Racism means treating someone badly, or differently, because of their race, colour, nationality, ethnicity or where they or their family come from. It isn’t always loud or obvious.

Words

Abuse and “banter”

Racist names, slurs, jokes, comments about hair, skin, food or accents, and being told to “go back home”. Calling it a joke doesn’t make it okay.

Violence

Physical attacks

Being pushed, spat at, attacked or threatened, or having your property damaged or covered in racist graffiti.

Online

Online racism

Racist messages, comments, memes, videos, group chats and pile-ons, and accounts that spread hate.

Everyday

Microaggressions

Small, repeated comments or actions, such as “Where are you really from?”, touching someone’s hair, or being followed around a shop.

Unfair treatment

Discrimination

Being treated worse at school, at work, in shops or by services, or being refused something, because of your race.

Faith

Religious hate

Antisemitism, anti-Muslim hate and hostility towards any faith often overlap with racism.

03

Your rights under the Equality Act 2010.

Race is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act. That covers your colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origins. The law protects you at school and college, at work, in shops, on public transport, in housing, and when dealing with public services, including the police.

01

Direct discrimination

Being treated worse than others because of your race. For example, being punished more harshly than other pupils for the same thing.

02

Indirect discrimination

A rule that applies to everyone but puts people of a certain race at an unfair disadvantage, such as a school uniform policy that bans certain natural hairstyles.

03

Harassment

Unwanted behaviour linked to race that violates your dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.

04

Victimisation

Being treated badly because you complained about racism, or supported someone else who did.

Time limits for legal claims are short, often 3 to 6 months. If you think you have been discriminated against, get advice quickly from the Equality Advisory and Support Service or Citizens Advice.

04

When is it a crime?

Not all racism is a crime, but it can always be reported. If you’re not sure, report it anyway and let the police or a reporting service decide.

Hate incident

Any incident you or anyone else believes was motivated by hostility or prejudice

For example, racist name-calling. It may not be a crime, but it can still be reported, recorded and acted on, especially if it keeps happening.

Hate crime

A crime motivated by hostility based on race or religion

For example, assault, threats, harassment, criminal damage or abuse in public. Courts can give tougher sentences when a crime is racially or religiously aggravated.

Tougher sentences

Some offences have their own racially or religiously aggravated version with a higher maximum sentence. For example, common assault can carry up to 6 months, but racially aggravated assault up to 2 years.

Online abuse

Sending threatening or grossly offensive messages, and stirring up racial hatred online, can be crimes.

Age matters

Anyone aged 10 or over can be held criminally responsible, so young people can be charged with hate crimes too.

05

How to respond in the moment.

Your safety comes first. You don’t have to confront anyone. Walking away is not weakness.

1

Get safe. Move away, go somewhere busy or into a shop, and stay with friends. Call 999 if you are in danger.

2

Don’t retaliate. Reacting with violence or abuse can put you at risk and could get you into trouble.

3

Record what happened. If it’s safe, film it, screenshot it, or write down what was said, when and where, and who saw it.

4

Tell someone and report it. Talk to someone you trust, then report it using the options below.

If you see it happen

Be an active bystander

  • Distract: interrupt by asking the person being targeted the time, or for directions
  • Delegate: get help from staff, a driver, a teacher or security
  • Document: film from a safe distance, and give the footage to the person targeted
  • Check in: afterwards, ask the person if they’re okay and if they want help to report it
  • Speak up if it is safe to do so
06

When to report, and who to.

You can report racism even if you’re not sure it is a crime, even if it happened a while ago, and even if it happened to someone else.

In danger right now

Call 999

If someone is being attacked or threatened, or the person is still nearby.

A crime has happened

Report to the police

Call 101, report online to your local force, or use True Vision, the national online hate crime reporting site.

Don’t want to go to the police

Report another way

Stop Hate UK (24/7, with a line just for under-18s), Crimestoppers (anonymous), or a local hate incident reporting centre.

At school or college

Tell the school

Tell a teacher you trust, the head of year or the head teacher. Schools must take racist incidents seriously. If they don’t, use the school’s complaints procedure.

At work

Tell your employer

Tell your manager or HR, and keep a record. Acas gives free advice on discrimination at work.

Online

Report it twice

Report it to the app or website, and to True Vision or the police if it’s threatening or abusive. Screenshot it first.

In a shop or service

Complain and get advice

Complain to the business and contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service for advice.

By the police

Make a complaint

Complain to the police force involved, or through the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Not sure?

Talk to us

Youth Unity can help you understand what happened and support you to report it.

07

For parents and carers.

Believe them. Young people often worry they will be told they are overreacting. Listen, take it seriously, and tell them it is not their fault.

Help them record it. Dates, times, what was said, screenshots and names of witnesses all make a report stronger.

Hold the school to account. Ask for a meeting, ask how the incident is being recorded and dealt with, and follow up in writing.

Talk about it at home. Conversations about identity, pride and how to respond safely help young people feel strong and supported.

08

Report it and get support.

Free and confidential reporting and support services across London, Essex and Kent.

Report anywhere

Online police reporting

True Vision

The national website for reporting hate crimes and hate incidents to the police online.

Report online →24/7 · anonymous

Stop Hate UK

Report hate and get support without going to the police. There is a dedicated line for under-18s.

0800 138 1625 · under 18s: 0808 801 0576Visit website →100% anonymous

Crimestoppers

Give information about a crime anonymously. Your details are never traced.

0800 555 111Visit website →

Advice and support

Discrimination advice

Equality Advisory and Support Service

Free advice on discrimination at school, in shops and services. Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 2pm.

0808 800 0082Visit website →Racism at work

Acas

Free, impartial advice about discrimination and your rights at work.

0300 123 1100Visit website →Under 19s · 24/7

Childline

Free, confidential support about racism, bullying, or anything that’s worrying you.

0800 1111Visit website →If you’ve been affected by crime

Victim Support

Free, confidential emotional and practical support for victims and witnesses of hate crime.

08 08 16 89 111Visit website →Complaints about police

IOPC

Complain about how you were treated by any police force in England and Wales.

Make a complaint →

Specialist community support

Anti-Muslim hate

Tell MAMA

Report and get support for anti-Muslim hatred and Islamophobia.

Visit website →Antisemitism

Community Security Trust (CST)

Report and get support for antisemitic incidents.

Visit website →East and Southeast Asian communities

On Your Side

Support for East and Southeast Asian people affected by racism and hate crime.

Visit website →Football and sport

Kick It Out

Report racism and discrimination in football, at any level, including grassroots and youth football.

Visit website →Education

Show Racism the Red Card

Anti-racism education and resources for young people, schools and youth groups.

Visit website →

London

Metropolitan Police

Report hate crime to the Met

Report a hate crime in London online. In an emergency, always call 999.

101Report online →Havering

Youth Unity

Not sure what to do? Talk to us and we’ll help you understand your options and support you to report it.

Talk to us →

Essex

Essex Police

Report hate crime in Essex

Report a hate crime or incident to Essex Police online, or call 101.

101Report online →Essex

Hate Incident Reporting Centres

Report to a trained local centre instead of going to the police directly. They work with Essex Police.

Find a centre →

Kent

Kent Police

Report hate crime in Kent and Medway

Report hate crime, including online hate, to Kent Police online, or call 101.

101Report online →Medway

Medway reporting hubs

Report hate crime with support at Citizens Advice Medway and community reporting hubs, without going to the police directly.

Find out more →
We’re always here to talk
If you’ve experienced or seen racism and want to talk it through, understand your options or get help to report it, Youth Unity is here for you. You will be listened to and believed.
Talk to us →

Sources

  1. Police-recorded religious and race hate crimes hit record high (Home Office data)
  2. GOV.UK: Hate crime, England and Wales, year ending March 2026
  3. Sentencing Council: Racial or religious aggravation
  4. CPS: Prosecuting racist and religious hate crime
  5. EHRC: The Equality Act and schools
  6. EHRC: Contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service
  7. Children’s Commissioner for Wales: Children’s experiences of racism in secondary schools
  8. Essex County Council: Report hate crime
  9. Kent Police: How to report hate crime
  10. Stop Hate UK: How to report online hate

This guide gives general information about the law in England and is not legal advice. Statistics and service details were checked in October 2026 and may change. In an emergency, always call 999.

Diverse international group of women or girl hugging together. Sisterhood, friends, union of feminists, event celebration. Girls team on isolated background with copy space. Flat vector illustration.

Girls & Womens Safety

by StopNAsk
Resources / Violence against women and girls
Young people & parents guide • London, Essex & Kent

Safe, respected,
free from fear.

Violence against women and girls (VAWG) includes domestic abuse, sexual harassment, sexual violence, stalking, spiking and online abuse. It is never the victim’s fault. This guide helps young people and parents understand the signs, know the law, stay safe and find support in London, Essex and Kent.

Get support ↓ Staying safe
In danger now?

Call 999. If you can’t speak, call from a mobile and press 55 when asked.

01

Why it matters.

VAWG affects millions of women and girls, and young people are among those most at risk.

1 in 8women in England and Wales experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault or stalking in a single year. That’s around 3.2 million women.
18%of 16 to 19-year-olds experienced domestic abuse in the last year, the highest of any age group.
23.5%of women aged 16 to 24 experienced sexual harassment in the last year.
2.2mwomen experienced domestic abuse in the year to March 2025.
6,732spiking reports were made to police in one year, including 957 reports of needle spiking.
Every 3 dayson average, a woman is killed by a man in the UK.
Abuse is never the victim’s fault. Not what you wore, where you were, what you drank, or who you trusted.
02

What is VAWG?

VAWG covers violence and abuse that disproportionately affect women and girls. Boys and men can experience these crimes too, and they deserve support as well.

At home and in relationships

Domestic abuse

Physical, emotional, sexual or financial abuse, threats and controlling behaviour by a partner, ex or family member.

Young relationships

Teen relationship abuse

Checking your phone, telling you what to wear, isolating you from friends, pressure for sex or images, threats and jealousy.

Control

Coercive control

A pattern of behaviour that controls, scares, humiliates or isolates someone. It is a crime, even without physical violence.

In public

Sexual harassment

Catcalling, unwanted comments, following, touching, flashing and staring that makes someone feel unsafe.

Sexual violence

Rape and sexual assault

Any sexual activity without consent. Most sexual violence is carried out by someone the victim knows.

Fear

Stalking

Repeated, unwanted contact or behaviour, such as following, turning up, messaging or monitoring someone online.

Online

Image-based and online abuse

Sharing or threatening to share intimate images, deepfakes, sextortion, and misogynistic abuse online.

Nights out

Spiking

Putting drugs or alcohol in someone’s drink, food or vape, or injecting them, without their knowledge.

Family and community

Honour-based abuse, forced marriage and FGM

Abuse to protect a family’s “honour”, forcing someone to marry, and female genital mutilation are all crimes in the UK.

03

Healthy relationships and consent.

Healthy

A healthy relationship feels like

  • Respecting each other’s boundaries and choices
  • Spending time with your own friends and family
  • Feeling safe to disagree and say no
  • Trust, without checking phones or locations
  • Feeling good about yourself
Warning signs

An unhealthy relationship can look like

  • Jealousy, possessiveness or constant messaging
  • Checking your phone or tracking your location
  • Telling you what to wear or who to see
  • Put-downs, threats or making you feel scared
  • Pressure to have sex or send images

Consent means agreeing by choice, with the freedom and ability to make that choice. Someone can’t consent if they are drunk, high, asleep, unconscious, scared or pressured.

Consent must be given every time, and it can be taken back at any point. Silence, or not saying no, is not consent.

The age of consent is 16. Anyone under 13 can never legally consent.

04

Staying safe

Keeping safe should never be only women and girls’ responsibility. But these steps and tools can help.

Out and about

On the move

  • Share your location and plans with someone you trust
  • Keep your phone charged
  • Use licensed taxis and check the details before you get in
  • Trust your instincts, and go into a shop or busy place if you feel unsafe
Nights out

Spiking

  • Watch your drink and don’t accept drinks you didn’t see poured
  • Look out for friends and leave together
  • If you or a friend suddenly feel very drunk, confused or unwell, tell staff and get help
  • Report spiking to police as soon as you can, so you can be tested
Online

Your digital safety

  • Check location sharing and privacy settings
  • Don’t share passwords, even with a partner
  • Screenshot abusive messages before you block
  • Never feel pressured to send images

Silent Solution

If you call 999 from a mobile and can’t speak, listen to the questions, cough or tap the phone if you can, then press 55 when asked. Police will know you need help.

Ask for ANI

In participating pharmacies, ask for “ANI” (Action Needed Immediately). Staff will take you to a private room with a phone to get help.

Ask for Angela

In many bars, clubs and venues, ask staff for “Angela” if you feel unsafe, and they will help you discreetly.

Clare’s Law

You can ask the police whether a partner, or someone close to you, has a history of abuse. This is the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme.

StreetSafe

Report places where you have felt unsafe, such as poorly lit streets, anonymously to the police.

Hide your browsing

If someone checks your phone or computer, use private browsing and quick exit buttons on support websites.

If you’ve been sexually assaulted

It’s not your fault. Help is there.

Whether it happened today or years ago, you deserve support. You don’t have to report to the police to get medical care and help.

Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) offer free, confidential medical care, emergency contraception, sexual health checks and support, 24 hours a day.

999 If you are in danger

What you can do

  1. Get somewhere safe and contact someone you trust.
  2. Call your local SARC. You can decide later whether to tell the police.
  3. If you can, try not to wash or change clothes before getting help, as this can keep evidence. If you already have, you can still get help.
  4. Under 18? Talk to Childline on 0800 1111, a trusted adult or a youth worker.

Spiked? Tell someone you trust, get to safety and report it as soon as you can. Some drugs leave the body within hours.

05

What the law says.

The law in England protects women and girls from abuse, harassment and violence, and has been strengthened in recent years.

Domestic Abuse Act 2021

Domestic abuse

Abuse by a partner, ex or family member aged 16 or over. Children who see, hear or experience domestic abuse are recognised as victims in their own right.

Crime

Coercive control

Controlling or coercive behaviour in a relationship is a criminal offence.

From 1 April 2026

Public sexual harassment

Intentionally harassing someone in public because of their sex, such as catcalling, following or blocking their path, is now a specific crime, with up to 2 years in prison.

Crime and Policing Act 2026

Spiking

A new offence covers spiking drinks, food or vapes, and needle spiking.

Crime

Stalking

Stalking and harassment are crimes, online and offline. Courts can make orders to stop someone contacting you.

Crime

Image-based abuse

Sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent, upskirting, cyberflashing, and creating sexual deepfakes are all crimes. Any sexual image of an under-18 is illegal.

Since 2023

Forced marriage

It is illegal for anyone under 18 to marry, even with parents’ consent, and forcing anyone to marry is a crime.

Crime

FGM

Female genital mutilation is illegal in the UK, including taking a girl abroad for it.

Crime

Rape and sexual assault

Any sexual activity without consent is a serious crime, including within a relationship or marriage.

06

Boys and young men can be part of the change.

Most men and boys don’t commit violence, but everyone can help prevent it. Misogyny online, from some influencers and in group chats, can shape how young men see women and girls.

Be an active bystander. If you see harassment or hear sexist “jokes”, you can call it out if it’s safe, check in with the person targeted, or tell someone in charge.

Boys and men can be victims too. If it’s happening to you, you deserve support. There are services for men and boys listed below.

07

Get support

Free and confidential support across London, Essex and Kent. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

National, 24/7

Domestic abuse · 24/7

National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Free, confidential support from Refuge for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or worried about someone.

0808 2000 247Visit website →Sexual violence · 16+ · 24/7

Rape Crisis 24/7 Support Line

For anyone affected by rape, sexual assault or abuse, whenever it happened. You can also chat online.

0808 500 2222Visit website →Under 19s · 24/7

Childline

Free, confidential support about relationships, abuse, feeling unsafe or anything else.

0800 1111Visit website →

Specialist support

Stalking

National Stalking Helpline

Advice for anyone being stalked or harassed, or worried about someone else.

0808 802 0300Visit website →Honour-based abuse

Karma Nirvana

Support for anyone affected by honour-based abuse or forced marriage.

0800 5999 247Visit website →Forced marriage · 24/7

Forced Marriage Unit

Government help if you are worried about being forced to marry, in the UK or abroad.

020 7008 0151Visit website →Intimate images · 18+

Revenge Porn Helpline

Help for adults whose intimate images have been shared or threatened. Under 18? Use Childline’s Report Remove.

0345 6000 459Visit website →Men and boys

Men’s Advice Line

Support for men experiencing domestic abuse.

0808 801 0327Visit website →LGBT+

Galop

Support for LGBT+ people experiencing domestic abuse, sexual violence or hate.

0800 999 5428Visit website →Worried about your own behaviour

Respect Phoneline

Confidential help for anyone worried that they are being abusive towards a partner.

0808 802 4040Visit website →Under 25s

The Mix

Free, confidential support for young people about relationships, sex, mental health and more.

0808 808 4994Visit website →Nude image online · under 18

Report Remove

Get nude or sexual images of you taken down from the internet, from Childline and the Internet Watch Foundation.

Use Report Remove →

London

Havering · women

Havering Women’s Aid

Specialist support for women experiencing domestic abuse in Havering.

01708 728759Visit website →Havering · men

Mendas

Specialist support for men experiencing domestic abuse in Havering.

01708 737364Visit website →London SARC · 24/7

The Havens

London’s sexual assault referral centres, offering free medical care and support after rape or sexual assault.

020 3299 6900Visit website →Across London

London Survivors Gateway

A single route into support services across London for anyone affected by sexual violence, at any time in their life.

Visit website →

Essex

Essex · 16+

Compass Essex Domestic Abuse Helpline

Information, advice and support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or worried about someone. Weekdays 8am to 8pm, weekends 8am to 1pm.

0330 333 7444Visit website →Essex SARC · 24/7

Oakwood Place

Free, confidential medical care and support for anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted in Essex.

0330 223 0099Visit website →

Kent

Kent & Medway

Kent & Medway Domestic Abuse Partnership

Find local support, drop-ins and advice, including a section for children and young people.

0808 168 9276Visit website →Kent SARC · 24/7

Beech House

Free, confidential medical care and support for anyone of any age who has been raped or sexually assaulted in Kent and Medway.

0330 223 0099Visit website →
We’re always here to talk
Worried about a relationship, something that has happened, or a friend? Youth Unity is here to listen and help you find the right support. No judgement.
Talk to us →

Sources

  1. End Violence Against Women Coalition: ONS VAWG data
  2. ONS: Domestic abuse victim characteristics, year ending March 2025
  3. Plan International UK: Public sexual harassment law comes into force
  4. Protection from Sex-based Harassment in Public Act 2023
  5. GOV.UK: Spiking factsheet
  6. New spiking offence becomes law
  7. EVAW: Government VAWG strategy published
  8. Hillingdon Council: Silent Solution and Ask for ANI
  9. Rape Crisis England & Wales
  10. Havering Council: Local and national support
  11. Essex County Council: Compass
  12. Kent & Medway Domestic Abuse Partnership

This guide gives general information about the law in England and is not legal advice. Statistics and service details were checked in October 2026 and may change. If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

WhatsApp Image 2026-01-16 at 19.45.37 (3)

Kent VRU

by KENT POLICE
The Youth Unity mobile hub van set up on a field, with young people playing sport around it
Outreach Chattenden

Unity Hub comes to Chattenden

Our new mobile outreach sessions in Chattenden are up and running. Funded by the Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit, Unity Hub brings free, drop-in youth provision straight to the heart of the community every Friday after school.

When
Every Friday
3:45pm to 6:15pm
Where
Swinton Avenue
Chattenden ME3 8PH
Who
Young people
aged 11 to 18
Cost
Free
Just turn up

A safe space, right where young people are

Our mobile hub turns a local open space into a welcoming youth club. There's no booking and no cost. Young people can simply drop in, meet friends and take part in activities led by our trusted, trauma-informed youth workers.

  • GamingXbox and PS5
  • Multi-sportsFootball, table tennis and more
  • ChessLearn and play
  • MusicDecks and speakers

Helping to reduce anti-social behaviour

Unity Hub is part of a joined-up response to anti-social behaviour in Chattenden. By offering positive things to do during the after-school hours, when young people are most likely to be out and about, the sessions give them a safe alternative and a chance to build positive relationships with adults they can trust.

We're working closely with the Medway Community Safety Partnership and Kent Police. This joint working means youth workers, officers and partners share what they're hearing from the community, respond quickly to concerns, and make sure any young person who needs extra help is linked into the right support.

The sessions also give young people a voice. Their ideas and concerns help shape what we deliver, and what partners understand about life for young people in the area.

Session dates

  • OCT
    02
  • OCT
    09
  • OCT
    16
  • OCT
    23
  • OCT
    30
  • NOV
    06
Funded by and working in partnership with
Kent Police livery on the side of a police car

Thank you to the Kent and Medway Violence Reduction Unit for funding Unity Hub Chattenden, and to Medway Council, the Medway Community Safety Partnership and Kent Police for working alongside us.

Want to know more, or have a young person you think would benefit? Get in touch with the team.

Contact us
WhatsApp-Image-2026-10-01-at-22.51.05

Metropolitan Police The Battis

by Metropolitan PoliceThe Battis
Friday Nights at The Battis · Youth Unity CIC
YOUTH UNITY
Summer 2026 · July to September

The BattisYouth Hub

Friday nights in Romford. Our summer in numbers.

Every Friday from 3.30pm to 6.30pm, the doors of The Battis open to young people from across Havering. It's free, there's hot food, and there are always trusted adults on hand. Between July and September 2026, that simple promise added up to something we're really proud of.

Come along on a Friday See the numbers →
Young people writing messages on the chalk wall next to The Battis Youth Hub poster
"What's your message to the world?"
A full room, every Friday

Thirteen Fridays. Hundreds of visits. The same faces coming back.

Over the summer quarter we spent more than 45 hours with young people, straight after school and into Friday evening, right in the heart of Romford. The numbers matter, but what matters more is who keeps coming back. That consistency is what lets our youth workers build real trust and pick up on concerns early.

13
Friday sessions
377
attendances
29
young people on average each week
45+
hours of youth work
What's on offer

Something for everyone who walks through the door.

Every week

Just turn up

Fridays · 3.30–6.30pm · Romford

  • Gaming on Xbox and PS5
  • Music, making and mixing
  • Sports: basketball, table tennis and boxing
  • Chess, whether you're learning or already good
  • Podcasting, finding your voice
  • Hot food, free every single week
Monthly rotation

What's on each Friday

  • 1st Friday: DJ workshops, learning to mix and play on the decks
  • 2nd Friday: Chess night, beginners welcome
  • 3rd Friday: Podcasting, recording a Unity Voices episode
  • 4th Friday: Girls' Safe Space, a session just for young women
Young people playing table tennis and boxing pads in the covered games space
Table tennis & boxing
Two young people playing chess at a picnic bench
Chess
Young people and a youth worker sitting at a picnic bench with board games
Games & chat
A busy session in the games space with table tennis in play
A busy Friday
Who comes

Reaching the young people it's meant for.

The right age

95.5% of attendances were from young people aged 12 to 18, with 12 to 15 year olds making up nearly three quarters. That's exactly the age where early, positive contact can make the biggest difference.

Aged 12–1895.5%
Aged 12–1572.2%

The room is also genuinely mixed. Young people from a wide range of backgrounds share the same space every Friday, with no single group in the majority.

A space young women choose to be in

50.9%

of attendances were young women: 192 visits across 13 Fridays.

Young women consistently tell us The Battis feels safe and is a great place to express themselves. As well as their own Girls' Safe Space every fourth Friday, they use the open sessions just as fully as young men do.

For comparison, on our detached outreach on Hornchurch High Street, young women made up 38.4% of contacts. This is a space that's reaching young women who can be harder to reach elsewhere.

Unity Voices

A podcast run by young people.

Unity Voices podcast cover: When the Beat Hits Different, young people on music, drugs and violence

Young people from the hub run their own podcast. They pick the topics, write the questions and lead the conversations.

Real-life dilemmasGrowing up in South East LondonMusic, drugs & violenceBelongingIdentity

The podcast now has listeners in the UK, US, Canada and Sweden, across seven listening platforms. Not bad for something recorded on a Friday afternoon in Romford.

🎧 Apple Music🎧 Spotify
Fed and watered

Hot food, every Friday.

Thanks to funding from the Metropolitan Police, the hub has its own air fryers, so every young person who walks through the door is offered hot food and a drink.

Most arrive straight from school at 3.30pm, and food means they settle, stay and take part. Sharing a table is also where young people relax and talk, and where a lot of trust gets built.

A table set out with plates of hot food and drinks
Food's up
What's next

Growing around the young people who use it.

Their artwork and messages already cover the walls, and the offer keeps developing.

1

DJ workshops

Being introduced now on the first Friday of each month.

2

Digital membership cards

Every member gets their own card with a QR code, so we can keep them updated, reach a parent or carer quickly if needed, and better understand how many young people we reach.

3

The unit next door

We're hoping to secure the neighbouring space, giving the hub room to grow alongside the young people in it.

Come along

Free. Every Friday. Everyone aged 12–18 welcome.

No referral, no forms. Just turn up.

The Battis Youth Hub

DayEvery Friday
Time3.30–6.30pm
WhereThe Battis, Romford
Age12–18
CostFree, food included
✉ admin@youthunity.org ☎ 0203 105 3525 ↗ youthunity.org
Made possible by

Thank you.

A huge thank you to the Metropolitan Police for supporting this work, and to every young person who's made Friday nights at The Battis what they are.

Metropolitan Police

Delivered by Youth Unity CIC

YOUTH UNITY
PREVENT · PREPARE · PROTECT

Empowering young people across Havering and beyond through outreach, mentoring and real opportunity.

Metropolitan Police
© 2026 Youth Unity CIC · The Battis Youth Hub admin@youthunity.org · 0203 105 3525
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Harlow Outreach

by HarlowOutreach
HARLOW OUTREACH · BLOG

Unity Hub
on your estate.

News, session updates and stories from our mobile youth hub as it rolls into The Stow, Bush Fair and Sumners every Thursday this autumn. Free drop-in sessions for 11 to 18 year olds. No booking, no cost — just turn up.

See this week's session → Read the latest post
The Youth Unity mobile hub van set up on an estate green with young people playing football
NEXT STOP · The Stow · Thu 17 Sep
Every Thursday

3:15 – 5:45pm · Ages 11 to 18 · Free to attend · Just turn up

LATEST POSTS · AUTUMN 2026

What's happening on the hub.

We'll post here after every session — where we were, what young people got up to, and where the van is heading next.

Announcement··3 min read
Youth Unity outreach session

The Unity Hub is coming to Harlow — and it's coming to you.

From Thursday 17 September, Youth Unity CIC is bringing its mobile youth hub to three Harlow estates, supported by The Safer Harlow Partnership. Rather than asking young people to travel to us, the van turns up on your green with consoles, sports kit, chess boards and decks — and a team of youth workers who are there to listen.

Seven Thursday afternoons across The Stow, Bush Fair and Sumners. Free, open access, ages 11 to 18. If you're nearby between 3:15 and 5:45pm, come and say hello.

Read the full post →
What's on·

Gaming, sport, chess and music: what's inside the van

A look at what comes out of the back doors when the hub parks up — and why we chose these four things.

  • ✓Gaming — Xbox and PS5 set up on the side of the van
  • ✓Multi sports — football, table tennis and whatever the space allows
  • ✓Chess — learn the moves or challenge a youth worker
  • ✓Music — decks and speakers, bring your own tracks
See the full kit list →
Timetable·

Your autumn timetable: The Stow, Bush Fair and Sumners

The van rotates between three estates so nobody has to travel far. Same time every week — Thursdays, 3:15 to 5:45pm — and we'll confirm the 29 October venue here as soon as it's fixed.

Check the dates →
Parents & carers·

Bringing someone along? Here's what to expect

Sessions are drop-in, so young people can arrive and leave when they like within the two and a half hours. There's no sign-up form and nothing to pay. Youth Unity staff are on site for the whole session and are happy to talk to parents, carers and neighbours about what we do.

Read the guide →
Supported by
The Safer Harlow Partnership — Working together for a safer community Youth Unity CIC

Harlow Outreach is delivered by Youth Unity CIC with the support of The Safer Harlow Partnership, working together for a safer community.

GET IN TOUCH

Want the hub on your estate?

Whether you're a resident, a school, a partner agency or a young person yourself — tell us where you'd like the van to stop next.

Email the team → Visit youthunity.org
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Havering Offer

by London Borough of HaveringOutreachThe Battis
Youth Unity × Havering London Borough

Youth spaces in Havering — a free, safe space for young people

Three weekly sessions across Romford and Harold Hill for anyone aged 10 and over. Gaming, music, sport, chess, podcasting and free fresh fruit, with youth workers on hand every time. No cost, no pressure, no judgement.

Register to attend → Find a session

✓ 100% free. Runs every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday after school.

10+
Ages welcome
3
Venues across Havering
4
Sessions every week
Free
Always, for everyone
What's on

Pick whatever you're into

Every session has all of this on offer. Get stuck into one thing or try the lot — it's your space.

Gaming

Xbox and PS5 — free play, tournaments and a bit of friendly competition.

Music

Make your own tracks and learn to mix on proper kit.

Sports

Hoops, table tennis and boxing — all abilities, no experience needed.

Chess

Learn the game from scratch or challenge the regulars.

Podcasting

Find your voice — get behind the mic and record something real.

Fresh fruit

Free every week, so nobody's running on empty.

Where & when

Three spaces, four sessions a week

All sessions run straight after school. Come every week or drop in when you can — you're welcome either way.

Tuesday3.30pm – 6pm
Youth Unity media van on Romford South Street

Our Media Van
Romford South Street

South Street, Romford

Our fully-kitted media van parks up on South Street every Tuesday afternoon. Come find us, grab some fruit, jump on the consoles or try the podcasting gear.

No registration needed to drop in — but please register so we can keep you updated on our services and projects.

Drop-in session
Register for the Media Van →
Thursday4pm – 6pm
My Place Youth and Community Centre, Harold Hill

My Place Youth Club
Harold Hill

Harold Hill, RM3 9EN

A proper youth club space at My Place Youth and Community Centre, with room for sports, gaming, music and more.

Registration required
Register for My Place →
Thursday & Friday3.30pm – 6pm
The Battis, Romford Station railway arches

The Battis
Romford

Side of Romford Station, Railway Arches, RM1

Tucked into the railway arches beside Romford Station, The Battis is our end-of-week hangout — running both Thursday and Friday afternoons.

Registration required
Register for The Battis →
📍
Registration is a must to attend our youth spaces. Each venue has its own registration link — it takes a couple of minutes, it's free, and it helps us keep every young person safe.
For parents & carers

Somewhere positive to be after school

We know it matters where young people spend their time. Every session is run by experienced Youth Unity youth workers, and every young person at our venues is registered so we always know who's with us. Want to talk to us first? Just get in touch.

Safe & supervisedFree to attendAges 10+ Registered attendanceTrained youth workersHavering-backed

Someone to talk to

Youth workers are there throughout — for a chat, a bit of advice, or just to listen.

Try something new

Podcasting, music production, boxing, chess — skills and confidence they won't get from a screen at home.

Make new mates

Come with friends or come alone — everyone's welcome and nobody's left out.

Fed and looked after

Free fresh fruit every week, and a warm, well-run space to be in.

100% Free
Ages 10+
Safe Space
Youth Workers On Site
Ready when you are

Register and come along this week

Pick the venue you want to come to — each one has its own free registration form. It takes a couple of minutes, then just turn up.

Media VanTuesday · Romford South Street Register →
My PlaceThursday · Harold Hill, RM3 9EN Register →
The BattisThursday & Friday · Romford, RM1 Register →

Need a hand registering, or want to chat before you come? Call us — we're always happy to talk.

www.youthunity.org 0203 1053525
YOUTH UNITY · Youth Spaces in Havering · Delivered in partnership with Havering London Borough