Variations and Determinants of NPS Use
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Variations and Determinants of NPS use: Potential Implications for Policy & Practice
IRAS ID
173632
Contact name
Kathryn Higgins
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen's University Belfast
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 31 days
Research summary
Across Europe, Novel Psychoactive Substances (NPS), sometimes referred to as "legal highs" have become increasingly popular among young people, particularly in the United Kingdom (UK). Despite the magnitude of the NPS market in the UK, there is limited information around pathways into use and associated harms. With this in mind, the current study will examine patterns of NPS use and the risks to which users may be exposed. We will conduct narrative interviews with a number of NPS users to explore pathways into NPS use, outcomes, risk perception and experiences of use. We will co-ordinate a number of knowledge exchange groups to discuss NPS with healthcare professionals, service providers and academics. This information will then be used in order to provide evidence of the potential public health impact whilst informing local and national policy and practice.
REC name
HSC REC A
REC reference
15/NI/0241
Date of REC Opinion
9 Dec 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion