Rough sleepers in central London face dangers from cheap synthetic Spice
The article describes rough sleepers using the synthetic cannabinoid Spice in central London, including a man who smoked it on Victoria Street and then slumped over. It presents the drug’s low price and visible effects as part of the challenges facing people sleeping rough and local outreach services.
During a Westminster patrol, the article says groups of rough sleepers smoked Spice in Grosvenor Gardens, while others appeared incapacitated nearby. Claire Dunn of Westminster Council said a small amount can cost about £3, with larger group purchases sometimes cheaper; she described users losing control of bodily functions and appearing unresponsive. The article also reports that some people decline offers of shelter, making support difficult.
- Spice is being used by rough sleepers in central London.
- A small amount can cost around £3.
- Westminster outreach workers face challenges offering support.
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Spice is a name used for synthetic cannabinoids, drugs made to mimic some effects of cannabis. Their strength and effects can vary, and people who take them may become confused, unresponsive or unable to control their movements.
Rough sleeping means living outside or in places not intended as homes. In central London, outreach workers and local councils try to support people sleeping rough, including by offering shelter and help with drug use, but some people do not accept the help offered. Cheap drugs can add to the health and safety challenges faced by rough sleepers and those trying to support them.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “In the heart of London’s commuter hub, a vagrant takes a £3 hit of super strength Spice, instantly turning into a zombie. This is the drug rocket fuelling Sadiq Khan’s homeless crisis”.