Chemsex and the law

There can be a lot of fear surrounding the possession and use of drugs. While there can be some legal consequences, it’s very important to remember this should never stop you getting any help you may need in an emergency. 

We will help break down the relationship between chemsex and the law, and how you can safely get help if you need it.  

If you need an ambulance, they are there to treat and help only. Don’t hesitate to call 999 or call 112 for help. 

Is chemsex illegal in the UK? 

Chemsex (having sex while using drugs) is not illegal. However, many of the drugs commonly used during chemsex are controlled under UK law. This means that activities connected to these drugs, such as possession, supply, or production, may be illegal. 

The law focuses on the drugs, not the sex. But being in a chemsex setting where drugs are present can still carry legal risks. 

Find out more about what to do if you are arrested on the Legal Implications guide from Controlling Chemsex.

Which chemsex drugs are illegal? 

Many drugs associated with chemsex are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. These include: 

  • Crystal meth (methamphetamine - a Class A substance)
  • Mephedrone (meph -  a Class B substance)
  • Ketamine (ket -  a Class B substance)

Possessing these drugs can lead to arrest, fines, or prosecution. Supplying (including sharing with others) is treated more seriously and can carry longer prison sentences. 

GHB/GBL is slightly different:

  • GHB is a controlled drug under the same law
  • GBL is not always illegal to possess, but it is illegal to supply it for human consumption
  • This means that even giving someone GHB/GBL in a chemsex setting can be considered supplying a controlled substance. 

Can I get in trouble for sharing drugs during chemsex? 

In UK law, “supply” includes giving drugs to someone else, even if no money is exchanged. 

This means: 

  • Passing drugs to a partner or group
  • Preparing or measuring doses for others
  • Hosting a space where drugs are shared. 

All of these could potentially be treated as supply offences, which carry more serious legal consequences than possession. 

What happens if the police attend a chemsex party/chill out? 

If police attend a somewhere where chemsex is taking place, what happens will depend on the situation. 

They may:

  • Search the property
  • Seize drugs or equipment
  • Arrest people for possession or supply offences
  • Check on the welfare and safety of those present. 

In some situations, emergency services may also be involved if there are concerns about overdoses or someone’s health. 

Find out more about what to do if you are arrested on the Legal Implications guide from Controlling Chemsex.

Will I get in trouble if I call an ambulance? 

The safety of someone always comes first. If someone is unwell, unconscious, or at risk of overdose, it's important to call emergency services. 

Ambulance staff are there to provide medical care, not to enforce drug laws, and in many cases, the priority will be saving lives and ensuring safety. 

Police are not always involved when an ambulance is called, although they may attend in some situations. 

Fear of getting in trouble can stop people from calling for help, but delays can be life-threatening, especially with drugs like GHB/GBL. 

Never hesitate to call an ambulance using 99 or 112 if someone needs it. 

What are my rights if I’m stopped or searched? 

Police have powers to stop and search people if they suspect drugs are involved. 

If this happens: 

  • You have the right to be treated respectfully and without discrimination
  • You can ask why you are being searched
  • You can request a record of the search. 

You don’t have to answer questions beyond giving your name and address (in most situations) but staying calm and being cooperative can help keep things safe. 

Is it safe to talk to services about chemsex? 

Yes. Many health and support services in the UK are confidential and non-judgemental. 

This includes: 

  • Sexual health clinics
  • Drug and alcohol services
  • LGBTQ+ support organisations. 

These services are there to support your health and wellbeing, not to report you to the police. 

Confidentiality may only be broken in rare situations, such as serious risk of harm to you or someone else. 

Where can I get help or support? 

If you want support around chemsex, drug use, or your wellbeing, there are services that understand LGBTQ+ experiences. 

Some options include:

You can find more LGBTQ+ friendly services in our Chemsex Directory [LINK]. 

 

Published:

Updated:

Author: Liam Murphy

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