The only way to ensure you aren’t harmed by drugs is to avoid using them. If you choose to use drugs anyway, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of harm. If you don’t use drugs, these tips can help you support others that might.
Since 2022, we have been running our Harm Reduction campaign dedicated to ensuring your wellbeing is a priority. You can read our latest article this year on steps to take to understand the risks if you choose to take drugs and the steps you can take to reduce these.
This week, the Manchester Drug Analysis Exchange (MANDRAKE) has issued an urgent warning following two tragic deaths in Manchester involving young women who are believed to have taken MDMA powder or crystals. Please take care and read the latest alerts on dosages and substances found in pills and powders sold as MDMA/ecstasy.
If you or someone you know feels unwell, seek medical attention immediately.
Be aware that MANDRAKE doesn’t pick up everything that is in circulation so if you’re planning on taking a drug that hasn’t come up on MANDRAKE’S alerts, this doesn’t mean the drug you’re taking is ‘safe’.
Latest alert
MANDRAKE states the causes of the recent deaths are still unknown. MDMA samples in Manchester show purity levels from 4% to 77%, making doses unpredictable. Last year, 78 people died after using MDMA, half from MDMA alone.
Know when to seek help
If you feel unwell, seek medical help immediately:
- We offer an e-learning module Staying Safe, which contains video modules that cover most of the drugs taken in the UK today, the risks when taking them and how to engage with them more safely.
- If you are concerned or if somebody becomes unconscious or is having difficulty breathing, then put them in the recovery position and call 999 for an ambulance immediately. Do not wait to see if they get better by themselves.
- In halls or on campus, use our SafeZone app to contact the Campus Support and Security team. We can assure you that you won’t get into trouble with our Security team.
- At events, go to a bar and ask for medical help. Look for someone with a radio and ask them to call for medics.
FRANK have a useful guide on what to do in an emergency.
More support available:
- Eclypse, a free and confidential drug and alcohol service for young people in Manchester, are also available to speak to at the Advice Service every Wednesday afternoon 1-4pm. If you have significant issues or want medical advice, you can speak to the University GP service.
- You can also read the University’s new ‘Policy on The Harmful Use of Substances or Alcohol by Students’, in co-creation with the Students’ Union.