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Home Office launches new drug strategy
The new strategy sets out new action to protect the most vulnerable, including those with mental health issues.

Sets out new action to protect the most vulnerable

A new drug strategy to stop substance misuse and increase the rate of individuals recovering from drug dependence has been launched by the Home Office.

The new strategy sets out new action to protect the most vulnerable, including the homeless, victims of abuse and those with mental health issues.

It brings together the police, health and local partners to support those most at risk. The strategy includes measures to:

    •    reduce demand: through deterrent work including an expansion of the Alcohol and Drugs Education and Prevention Information Service for young people

    •    restrict supply: by pursuing a strong law enforcement response and dismantling trafficking networks

    •    support recovery: a new National Recovery Champion will be appointed to make sure adequate housing, employment and mental health services are available to help people turn their lives around

    •    drive international action: an international strand is included for the first time, setting out action to strengthen controls at our borders, understand global trends and share intelligence.

Commenting on the strategy, home secretary Amber Rudd said: “Since becoming home secretary I have seen first-hand how drugs can destroy lives. I am determined to confront the scale of this issue and prevent drug misuse devastating our families and communities.

“This government has driven a tough law enforcement response in the UK and at our borders, but this must go hand in hand with prevention and recovery. This new strategy brings together police, health, community and global partners to clamp down on the illicit drug trade, safeguard the most vulnerable, and help those affected to turn their lives around.

She continued: “We must follow through with our commitment to work together towards a common goal: a society free from the harms caused by drugs.”

Home Office figures show that 2.7 million 16-59-year-olds took illegal drugs in 2015/16. This is down 10.5 per cent a decade ago, but new threats are emerging, including new psychoactive substances such as ‘spice’, image and performance enhancing drugs, ‘chemsex’ drugs and misuse of prescribed medicines. 

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SPVS and FIVP launch VSA survey

News Story 1
 SPVS and FIVP have collaborated to launch a short survey about the proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

The survey will ensure that each organisation's submission accurately represents the experiences of practising veterinary professionals. It will also explore awareness, use and perceived value of the roles undertaken by the RCVS.

It takes around 5-10 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous. The survey can be completed here until Thursday, 19 March 2026. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.