Recent findings have shed light on a deeply concerning issue: spice-contaminated vapes are infiltrating schools across the UK, putting young people’s health and lives at risk. An investigation by the University of Bath found that 1 in 6 confiscated vapes tested contained spice, a synthetic drug known for its dangerous and potentially fatal side effects, including cardiac arrest.

As a drug treatment service with a strong focus on supporting BAME communities, KIKIT Pathways to Recovery CIC is working tirelessly to raise awareness of this growing problem and equip young people, parents, and adults with the knowledge to stay safe.

What’s Happening in Schools?

In a study led by Professor Chris Pudney of the University of Bath, 596 vapes confiscated from 38 schools across London, the West Midlands, Greater Manchester, and South Yorkshire were tested. The findings were alarming:

• Spice was detected in 74% of the schools involved.
• 16.6% of the vapes tested contained spice, while only 1.17% contained THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis.

The issue arises from unscrupulous sellers spiking vapes with spice, a cheaper and more accessible alternative to THC. Students often believe they are purchasing cannabis oil or nicotine vapes but are instead inhaling a synthetic drug that can lead to terrifying health episodes, including hallucinations, heart issues, and sudden collapse.

The Impact on Young People

The effects of spice-laced vapes on schoolchildren are severe and far-reaching. Headteachers report cases of students collapsing in school corridors, experiencing hallucinations, and requiring extended stays in intensive care units.

Ben Davis, headteacher at St Ambrose Barlow RC High School in Salford, recalled instances where students under the influence described their hands feeling unreal or uncontrollable, while others have lost consciousness entirely. He highlighted the fear among school staff of dealing with a fatality, especially if such incidents happen in isolated areas like bathrooms where immediate help may not be available.

The emotional impact on students, their peers, and staff is profound, as families are left grappling with the reality that something life-threatening occurred while their child was at school.

A Growing National Problem

This issue is not confined to one region. Reports of spice-laced vapes have emerged from Cornwall, Kent, London, Middlesborough, and beyond. With the summer holidays looming, the risk increases as students may encounter these dangerous products outside the protective environment of schools.

KIKIT’s Role in Raising Awareness and Building Resilience

At KIKIT Pathways to Recovery, we understand the critical need to address this issue through proactive education and community engagement. We are dedicated to supporting BAME communities, where cultural and language barriers often make it harder to access vital information about emerging drug risks like spice-laced vapes.

Here’s how we’re making a difference:

Workshops for Young People

We deliver interactive workshops in schools to educate young people about the dangers of spice-contaminated vapes. Our sessions are tailored to engage students in a relatable, non-judgmental way, ensuring they understand the risks and empowering them to make informed decisions.

Community Awareness Campaigns

KIKIT runs awareness campaigns across BAME communities, bridging the gap between cultural sensitivities and drug education. We provide practical resources and information, ensuring parents and guardians understand the signs of substance misuse and the dangers of unregulated vapes.

Training for Adults and Parents

In addition to working with young people, we run workshops for parents and adults, equipping them with the tools to have open conversations with their children about the risks. By fostering trust and understanding, we help parents address these challenging topics without judgment or blame.

Collaboration with Schools and Authorities

We partner with schools, local authorities, and law enforcement to create a united front against the rise of spice-laced vapes. By pooling resources and expertise, we aim to strengthen community resilience and reduce harm.

What You Can Do

As parents, guardians, and community members, it’s vital to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect young people:

1. Have Open Conversations: Speak honestly with your children about the dangers of unregulated vapes and synthetic drugs like spice. Create a safe, non-judgmental space where they feel comfortable sharing their experiences.
2. Recognize the Signs: Be aware of unusual behavior, such as dizziness, hallucinations, or physical disorientation, that could indicate substance use.
3. Support Awareness Efforts: Join workshops and campaigns like those offered by KIKIT to stay informed and involved in tackling this issue.

National Action is Needed

While schools and local police forces are making strides in addressing this issue, Professor Chris Pudney is calling for a coordinated national response. He urges the government to prioritize spice-laced vapes as a public health crisis, providing schools and police with the resources needed to protect young people.

At KIKIT Pathways to Recovery, we echo this call. We believe that through education, community support, and collaborative action, we can reduce harm and prevent further tragedies.

If you’re concerned about the impact of spice-contaminated vapes in your community, or if you want to get involved in our workshops and campaigns, contact KIKIT Pathways to Recovery today. Together, we can build a safer future for our young people.