Medical Cannabis – The UK’s relationship with Weed is changing rapidly.
A generation ago, cannabis was viewed by policy‑makers and much of the public as a fringe substance associated with counterculture.
Today, conversations about medicinal use, decriminalisation and harm reduction are moving into the mainstream. As the legal landscape evolves, so too does public opinion. In this post we explore where cannabis policy is heading in 2025 and the implications for the future.
A Nation Divided: What the Public Thinks
According to recent polling reported by The Guardian, a slim majority – around 54 % – of Britons now support decriminalising possession of small amounts of cannabis, while 34 % remain opposed. Interestingly, this shift has occurred despite falling rates of cannabis use overall. Usage has decreased since the early 2000s, yet the potency of available cannabis has increased significantly over the same period. Modern varieties, often dubbed “skunk,” can contain double or triple the THC levels that were common two decades ago. These trends highlight a paradox: fewer people are using cannabis, but those who do are exposed to much stronger products.
High‑Potency Concerns and Mental Health
The growing potency of illicit cannabis isn’t just a matter of preference; it poses genuine risks. Health professionals and organisations have warned that high‑THC strains are linked to anxiety, dependence and an elevated risk of psychotic disorders, especially among young people and those with a predisposition to mental‑health conditions. The Guardian stresses the need for more education and specialised services to support individuals experiencing cannabis‑induced psychosis. Public debate around reform must therefore balance personal liberty with the responsibility to protect vulnerable groups.
The Rise of Medical Cannabis in the UK
While recreational use remains illegal, medical cannabis has been available on prescription in the UK since 2018. Uptake was initially sluggish, but the past two years have seen rapid growth. Prohibition Partners, a leading cannabis industry analyst, estimates that 50,000–60,000 patients currently receive private prescriptions for medical cannabis, and projects that number to reach 80,000 by the end of 2025. The UK is now Europe’s second‑largest medical cannabis market, with sales forecast at around €269 million. Many patients are turning to cannabis to manage conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis when conventional treatments have failed. However, access remains largely confined to private clinics, and there is mounting pressure to integrate medical cannabis into the National Health Service so that cost isn’t a barrier.
Policy Considerations and Pending Reforms
The London Drugs Commission, established by the Mayor of London to examine alternative approaches to drug policy, has cautioned against simply copying commercial models seen in North America. Its report warns that corporate cannabis markets risk amplifying harm, particularly if high‑potency products are aggressively marketed. Organised crime groups remain heavily involved in supplying under‑age consumers and those seeking stronger, cheaper cannabis than any regulated market might offer.
At the same time, the government is considering measures that hint at a more permissive stance for certain legal sectors. For example, proposals to raise the permitted THC content in industrial hemp from 0.2 % to 0.3 % would bring the UK in line with many European neighbours. This change would give farmers access to a broader range of hemp varieties and could boost domestic cultivation. Another significant development is the decision to ban semi‑synthetic cannabinoids such as hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), which have been sold in a legal grey area. The move aims to protect consumers from substances that mimic THC’s effects while circumventing existing laws.
Looking Forward: Regulation, Harm Reduction and Opportunity
What does all this mean for the future of cannabis in the UK? On one hand, public support for decriminalisation is rising, and the medical market is expanding. On the other, concerns about potency, mental health and organised crime are valid and must shape policy. A sensible path forward may involve a regulated, health‑focused model that prioritises harm reduction rather than profit. This could include:
-
Evidence‑based education about the risks of high‑THC products and the benefits and limits of medical cannabis.
-
Expansion of NHS prescribing to ensure equitable access for patients in need.
-
Clearer regulation of hemp‑derived CBD and minor cannabinoids, providing certainty for businesses and consumers.
-
Support for research into cannabinoid therapeutics, including the potential of compounds beyond THC and CBD.
At Weed Supermarket, we follow these debates closely. Our mission is to provide UK‑legal cannabinoid products that prioritise quality, transparency and compliance with current regulations. From CBD derived products to terpene‑rich THCa strains, we believe informed consumers are empowered consumers. As the UK enters a period of transition, we’ll continue to champion responsible innovation and advocate for policies that balance personal freedom with public health.
The future of cannabis in Britain is far from certain, but the conversation has moved far beyond the fringes. Whether you’re a patient seeking relief, a policymaker weighing reforms or simply curious about the plant, we invite you to explore our resources and products to learn more about this evolving landscape.
