Cannabis is a Class B controlled drug, and it is illegal to possess cannabis for recreational use, supply, produce, import or export cannabis and cultivate cannabis plants. 

The illegal use of cannabis is also a breach of your tenancy agreement with Saffron Housing. 

We understand that cannabis odour can have a significant impact on others, and with this in mind, it is the safety of children and vulnerable adults that is our priority. If concerns arise that children or vulnerable adults may be living in a property where illegal drug activity is taking place, Saffron may share information with our safeguarding partners. This helps ensure people receive the support and protection they need. 

It is important to note that not all cannabis use is illegal. Medicinal cannabis can be legally prescribed by a specialist doctor for certain medical conditions. In addition, legal CBD products are widely available and can sometimes produce a similar smell to cannabis. 

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Impact of smoking cannabis on your neighbours and community

We understand that the smell of cannabis can be unpleasant and, in some cases, may have a significant impact on others’ quality of life. If you are affected by the impact of cannabis smoking, and you feel safe discussing this with your neighbour, choose a neutral time and maintain a calm tone to address the impact the odour is having on you.  

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 When should you report cannabis use? 

If you believe someone is using, growing, manufacturing or supplying cannabis, and if the smell is frequent or persistent, affecting your enjoyment of your home, and/or the smell is accompanied by other ASB, such as noise, disturbances, or threatening behaviour you can report it to the Police and also to us.  

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How to report cannabis smells and use

Contacting the Police: Call 101

Or report online: Norfolk residents: Visit the Norfolk Police website 

Suffolk residents: Visit the Suffolk Police website 

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Reporting anonymously via Crimestoppers

If you do not feel comfortable speaking directly to the Police or to us, you can provide information anonymously through Crimestoppers. Crimestoppers allows people to report criminal activity without revealing their identity. 

Crimestoppers Anonymous Reporting 

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Contacting Saffron Housing

If cannabis use or odour is affecting your enjoyment of your home, please contact us and provide as much information as possible, including any crime reference numbers issued by the Police. Working together with residents, the police and local partners gives us the best opportunity to investigate concerns, support affected households. 

Call us on 01508 532000, or email [email protected] 

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What happens when I make a report? 

When we receive a report, we will: 

  • Review the information provided        
  • Assess whether the issue meets our investigation threshold
  • Consider any supporting evidence available
  • Determine whether further action is appropriate 
  • Offer advice and support services to those impacted 

If there is insufficient information or the threshold is not met, we will explain why and advise you how to report any future incidents. 

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What will Saffron Housing do once reported? 

In most cases, where it is safe and appropriate to do so, we will: 

  • Contact the individual alleged to be using cannabis 

  • Explain the concerns raised 

  • Remind them of their tenancy obligations 

  • Explain the impact their behaviour may be having on neighbours 

  • Offer signposting to support services - this may include drug and alcohol services or referral to mediation 

  • Check whether the matter has been reported to the Police 

  • Raise safeguarding concerns where appropriate.