Tackling 'hippy crack' - policing chief sets up new action group to deal with laughing gas misuse

The group has been established by Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Barry Coppinger over the increasing use of nitrous oxide in Cleveland.

Used canisters of the gas, also referred to as ‘hippy crack’, ‘NOS’ or ‘nozzys’ have been found littering public spaces including several places around Hartlepool recently.

Under the Psychoactive Substances Act, the substance is illegal to sell or give for recreational use, but there is currently no penalty for possession.

Research suggests nitrous oxide can cause a number of short-term adverse side effects such as mild headaches, along with dizziness, slurred speech and sedation.

But when combined with other substances, the risk of unconsciousness increases and long-term use can result in nerve damage caused by vitamin deficiencies and anaemia.

Representatives from the PCC’s office, trading standards, local authorities, youth offending, antisocial behaviour, public health, and drug and alcohol services all met via conference call last week at the request of Mr Coppinger.

The group discussed the scale of the current problem in Cleveland and agreed to work together to identify opportunities to gather intelligence, educate young people and look at enforcement options if possible.

Mr Coppinger said: “Local residents and elected representatives have reached out to my office with their concerns about the growing evidence of nitrous oxide use in their area.

“Like so many issues, it cannot be tackled by one agency alone. By bringing a range of organisations together, we can create a proactive partnership to reduce the harm caused by the gas – both to individuals and to our communities.

“We have a great opportunity to utilise existing youth engagement avenues to educate young people about the dangers of the gas and work with trading standards to identify any local supply routes.

“Enforcement is limited in this instance, but I’ll be seeking advice from Cleveland Police at future meetings about what further options could be considered.”

Mr Coppinger asked the group to reconvene in early September.

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