Release is the national centre of expertise on drugs and drugs law. The organisation, founded in 1967, is an independent and registered charity.
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 evidence-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.
The organisation is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, as well as being part of the Vienna NGO Committee on Narcotic Drugs (VNGOC) and the New York NGO Committee on Drugs (NYNGOC).
Release provides a free confidential and non-judgemental national information and advice service in relation to drugs and drug laws. Our Drug & Legal teams who operate and respond to your queries are highly knowledgeable lawyers and drug professionals which are on-hand to help and advise you. We don’t use guides or frequently asked question menus, as each question or query will depend upon a unique set of facts and circumstances, so don’t be embarrassed to ask a question.
Help & advice is offered upon a number of circumstances and/or concerns, and below we have presented a few examples. If you are unsure whether you have a drugs or legal inquiry don’t worry our teams work in collaboration, so you can be assured you will always receive a response to your query.
Drugs
drug information
effects of drugs
harm reduction
matters involving drug dependency
types of treatment including maintenance prescribing and abstinence.
Legal
travelling with prescribed controlled drugs
drug testing in the workplace
impact of (past) criminal convictions and cautions
charges involving possession of drugs
charges involving intention to supply drugs
cannabis cultivation offences
There are three ways you can contact us for help & advice.
By telephone – 020 7324 2989
The telephone help & advice line is open from 11am—1pm & 2pm—4pm Monday to Friday. A message service is available 24 hours and we will return your call within one business day.
By email – ask@release.org.uk
Emailed help & advice messages will be answered as soon as possible including weekends.
Web form
Please complete their web form you can find here: www.release.org.uk/helpline
Remember - we are here to help NOT to judge.