Helen: a parent who finds her teenager's stash, or allows use at home

Facts. (a) Helen finds her 16-year-old's cannabis and flushes it. (b) Another parent lets teenagers smoke cannabis in the house "so they're safe".

What the law says.

• (a) MDA s.5(4) gives a defence for taking possession of a drug to prevent another person committing an offence, then destroying it or handing it to police as soon as possible [unverified — confirm wording].
• (b) An occupier who "knowingly permits or suffers" cannabis smoking on their premises commits an offence under MDA s.8 (Class B offence range Band A fine to 18 months).[2] Supplying to under-18s is statutory aggravation in supply cases.[16]

What to do. Talk to your child; use FRANK or a local young people's drug service. If you suspect exploitation (unexplained money, new phones, older "friends"), contact the police or NSPCC (0808 800 5000).