03 July 2017
Speaking to young people with experience of using novel psychoactive substances.
TONIC conducted insight research with over 1600 young people under 25 across England regarding the use of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). Young people that took part in the survey and phone interviews were readily able to articulate their views on this topic and several themes emerged in their responses, which are discussed throughout this report. This include the fact that NPS were rarely used alone, and that the Psychoactive Substances Act increased difficulty in purchasing NPS, though it was viewed as more inconvenient than a deterrent.
We heard that young people valued balanced views on NPS, including pros and cons, from credible sources, including those with drug use experience. The internet, especially YouTube and blogging platforms, was deemed the best medium for disseminating information, with social media also effective for advertising support services.
This report aimed to fill the gap in the available literature for treatment services, given the prevalence of NPS use among young people, by capturing their perspectives and motivations for use.
Report summary
TONIC conducted insight research with over 1600 young people under 25 across England regarding the use of Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS). Young people that took part in the survey and phone interviews were readily able to articulate their views on this topic and several themes emerged in their responses, which are discussed throughout this report. This include the fact that NPS were rarely used alone, and that the Psychoactive Substances Act increased difficulty in purchasing NPS, though it was viewed as more inconvenient than a deterrent.
We heard that young people valued balanced views on NPS, including pros and cons, from credible sources, including those with drug use experience. The internet, especially YouTube and blogging platforms, was deemed the best medium for disseminating information, with social media also effective for advertising support services.
This report aimed to fill the gap in the available literature for treatment services, given the prevalence of NPS use among young people, by capturing their perspectives and motivations for use.