Through our services the team provides free non-judgmental, specialist advice and information to the public and professionals on issues related to drug use and to drug laws.
The organisation campaigns directly on issues that impact on our clients - it is their experiences that drive the policy work that Release does and why we advocate for evidenced based drug policies that are founded on principles of public health rather than a criminal justice approach.
Release believes in a just and fair society where drug policies should reduce the harms associated with drugs, and where those who use drugs are treated based on principles of human rights, dignity and equality.
Services include:
Counselling
Our counselling outreach service seeks to support and improve the lives of people affected by substance (drugs and/or alcohol) use, dependency or those looking to remain abstinent who could benefit from professional specialist counselling sessions.
Drug Expert Witness
Our drug expert witness service is delivered by our highly knowledgeable and accredited (Expert Witness Institute) drugs team that have provided authoritative independent reports and testimony for civil, criminal and military cases in England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales for over 10 years.
Drug Issues Covered
The team are exceptionally experienced in dealing with most drugs whether prescribed or controlled/illicit (as defined by the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971) and are regularly instructed to comment upon:
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Valuation - street prices and wholesale
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drug prevalence
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common methods of drug use and administration
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cannabis cultivation and yield (including hydroponics)
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possession with intent to supply
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bulk purchase for personal use (scale of economy)
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importation and distribution
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dialogue interpretation and sequestration cases
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Proceeds of Crime Act, to name but few areas.
Help & Advice
Help & advice is offered upon a number of circumstances and/or concerns including drugs and legal.
Legal Outreach
Our legal surgery programme currently operates in ten drug treatment centres across eight London boroughs, seeing over 1800 clients a year.
Areas of legal advice and representation covered
People who use drugs problematically and engaging with the treatment centre can access a legal adviser for advice and assistance on a variety of issues, including:
• Housing
• Homelessness
• Welfare benefits (including representation at tribunals)
• Debt
• Complaints against the police
• Criminal injuries compensation claims
Address:
61 Mansell Street, London, E1 8AN
Area serviced:
Nationwide