The recent endorsement by London Mayor Sadiq Khan of the London Drugs Commission’s recommendations marks a major step forward for cannabis law reform in the UK—and we’re proud to say we played a part in making it happen. Teesside Cannabis Club was invited to submit evidence to the Commission as part of its wide-ranging review. Drawing on over a decade of experience running a community-led, harm reduction-focused cannabis club, we shared real-world insights into how sensible, compassionate policy can work on the ground.
Set up in 2022, the London Drugs Commission consulted with over 200 experts and organisations—including us—to better understand the impact of the UK’s current drug laws. Their final report, published in May 2025, found that “the criminal justice response to cannabis possession is disproportionately affecting Black Londoners and is damaging trust in the police.” They recommend decriminalising the possession of small amounts of natural cannabis for personal use and shifting from criminalisation toward public health support and education.
Mayor Sadiq Khan has backed these findings. He stated: “It is clear that we need a more enlightened approach to cannabis – one that is rooted in evidence and focused on reducing harm, not punishing people.” (Leafie article, May 2025). He also called for police resources to be redirected to address more serious crime, noting that “the current approach is not just ineffective – it’s unjust.”
For us, being included in this process is a huge moment. It recognises the years of work we’ve put into promoting safer, smarter cannabis policies in the UK. We’ve always believed that harm reduction starts in communities, and it’s powerful to see our model acknowledged in a major policy report. The fact that a grassroots club like ours contributed to a piece of work that now has the Mayor of London calling for reform is something we’re genuinely proud of.
There’s still work to do—drug laws remain under national control—but this is a sign that the tide is turning. With growing public support, expert backing, and examples like ours proving that community-led harm reduction works, the argument for change is becoming impossible to ignore.